India forms task force to assess F1 return in 2028 and revive motorsport ecosystem

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday announced a 10-member task force to assess the challenges and feasibility of reviving Formula One and motor sports in India with a view to exploring a return to the country in 2028.

The task force will be chaired by NITI Aayog Program Director and Advisor Yugal Kishore Joshi. Joint Secretary (Sports) Kunal will also be part of the committee.

The panel will have representation from the Ministries of Tourism and Commerce, Department of Revenue, Governments of Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra and the Indian Motor Sports and Racing Circuits.

Representatives from the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI), Buddh International Circuit (BIC) and Madras International Circuit (MIC) will be included in the task force. FMSCI also nominates a technical expert.

Mandaviya said the committee’s mandate includes finding ways to ensure sustainable growth of motor sports in India and preparing a coordinated Formula 1 recovery plan.

“The terms of reference of this committee suggest comprehensive ways for sustainable growth of motor sports in India, a holistic coordinated plan to revive Formula 1 so that we can host the race in 2028,” Mandaviya said during a media interaction.

The task force will also conduct a detailed assessment of the challenges facing motorsport in India, including tax-related issues, and identify the policy interventions needed to address them.

It will assess the international, economic, tourism and investment benefits of hosting major motoring events in India. The committee will also examine infrastructure and operational requirements and make recommendations for a comprehensive motorsport policy, including possible public-private partnership models.

The minister did not reveal the names of the other members except Joshi and Kunal.

FMSCI representation will include its President or Secretary General. The federation is currently led by Arindam Ghosh as president, although its election is due at its annual general meeting later this month.

India last hosted a Formula 1 race in 2013 at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida. The The Indian Grand Prix was held at the circuit between 2011 and 2013 before removed from the calendar due to bureaucratic and tax issues.

A new task force will now examine whether these challenges can be addressed and whether India can create the framework needed to bring Formula 1 back to the country in 2028.

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Issued by:

Amar Panicker

Published on:

15 Sep 2026 15:31 IST