Delhi to host Formula 1 racing

"India has won the right to host its first Formula One race in 2009, officials announced on Thursday. The deal was struck to hold the event in New Delhi", said Suresh Kalmadi, president of the Indian Olympic Association, which will promote the race.


Indian cricket teams doom in 2007 cricket worldcup seems to have given some impetus to growing popularity of other sports. Cricket mad country would now be hosting a Formula 1 race. So out of no where will delhi have to come up with a world class F1 strech, so as to attract the best in business.


There has been heightened interest in F1 racing in India after Karthikeyan hit the tracks on the back of Indian sponsorship reportedly worth $10 million. The 29-year-old did not race in 2006 but is signed up with Williams as a test driver.

Millions of Indians watch Formula One on television, often with the same passion they reserve for the country’s most popular sport — cricket.

"We have received a letter in this regard from Bernie Ecclestone, CEO of Formula One,” Mr Kalmadi told reporters. Funds will be raised from the government and the private sector to build a new F1 track and stadium for the race, said Mr Kalmadi.

"We are capable enough to raise the money. We have done it in the past. We will do it again,” he said. Asked why New Delhi was chosen as the venue, Mr Kalmadi said, "The Commonwealth Games are coming up. So we will have the international airport, hotels and other infrastructure ready for this."

The major obstacle in implementing such a gorgeous plan is corruption. If that could some how be controlled (emphasis.. controlled not avoided) then we all Formula One lovers can look forward to a treat in Delhi soon. more