With India missing from the 2014 schedule due to what promoters call ‘logistical’ reasons, it remains uncertain whether the race will return to the $450 million Buddh International Circuit on the outskirts of New Delhi.
Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone has said that India, gearing up to host its third race on Sunday, will be back in early 2015 as he rejigs a packed calendar.
Vicky Chandhok, who heads the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India, is hoping a successful race on Sunday -- when Sebastian Vettel is likely to seal the world title -- will help ensure Formula One returns.
‘With venues in other countries also fighting for slots, we can’t afford to miss out in 2015,’ Chandhok, father of racing driver Karun said. ‘But I am optimistic that the promoters will work out an agreement with Formula One to have two more races. We have a great facility here.’
Ecclestone was quoted as saying in July that ‘political’ matters caused India to miss out next year, but the event’s promoters were confident they will see out their five-race contract.
‘If the Indian GP is not being held in 2014 it is entirely for logistical reasons,’ said Sameer Gaur, CEO of privately owned Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI).
‘They wanted us to hold the race in March, but it was not practical to host one now and another in six months. But there should be no doubt that we will be back in 2015.’
Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone has said that India, gearing up to host its third race on Sunday, will be back in early 2015 as he rejigs a packed calendar.
Vicky Chandhok, who heads the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India, is hoping a successful race on Sunday -- when Sebastian Vettel is likely to seal the world title -- will help ensure Formula One returns.
‘With venues in other countries also fighting for slots, we can’t afford to miss out in 2015,’ Chandhok, father of racing driver Karun said. ‘But I am optimistic that the promoters will work out an agreement with Formula One to have two more races. We have a great facility here.’
Ecclestone was quoted as saying in July that ‘political’ matters caused India to miss out next year, but the event’s promoters were confident they will see out their five-race contract.
‘If the Indian GP is not being held in 2014 it is entirely for logistical reasons,’ said Sameer Gaur, CEO of privately owned Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI).
‘They wanted us to hold the race in March, but it was not practical to host one now and another in six months. But there should be no doubt that we will be back in 2015.’