New Delhi: India’s bid to bring Formula 1 back after more than a decade has gathered fresh momentum following a key decision by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
The Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) has been granted provisional recognition as a National Sports Federation (NSF) to strengthen the country’s push to host Formula 1 again.
The recognition comes weeks after the Chennai-based FMSCI applied for NSF status. It also follows several discussions between the federation and the Sports Ministry over the future of motorsport in India and the roadmap to bring Formula 1 back to the country.
In an order issued on July 23, the Sports Ministry confirmed that FMSCI had been granted provisional recognition with immediate effect. However, the federation has also been asked to update its constitution in line with the National Sports Governance Act, 2025.
Recognition comes with conditions
The Sports Ministry said the recognition will remain subject to compliance with governance, financial and anti-doping rules.
“…the request of Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) for provisional recognition as National Sports Federation (NSF) has been considered and it has been decided to grant provisional recognition to FMSCI as an NSF with effect from the date of issue of this letter,” the Ministry said.
The ministry also stated that the recognition could be withdrawn if FMSCI fails to meet governance standards, financial regulations or anti-doping requirements, or if any false information is found during the process.
The decision is expected to give FMSCI a bigger role in shaping the future of motorsport in the country as India continues its efforts to secure a place on the Formula 1 calendar once again.
Government push for F1 comeback
The Sports Ministry has already started work on a long-term plan to bring Formula 1 back by 2028. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya had earlier announced the formation of a dedicated Task Force to study the feasibility of hosting Formula 1 and other major motorsport events.
The panel will include officials from the Sports Ministry, FMSCI, the Uttar Pradesh government and the owners of the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida. It will examine infrastructure, operational requirements and the economic and tourism benefits of hosting Formula 1 in India.
Why is India back on Formula 1’s radar?
India last hosted Formula 1 races at the Buddh International Circuit from 2011 to 2013 before the event was dropped because of taxation issues and financial challenges. Since then, there have been several attempts to revive the race, but none have progressed beyond discussions.
The situation now appears more promising as Formula 1’s popularity continues to grow across the country. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has previously recognised India’s growing importance for the sport, while also stressing that a successful return would require strong commercial backing and reliable local partnerships.
According to Formula One, its fanbase in India has grown from 79 million in December last year to 98 million in less than six months, highlighting the country’s rising importance as a potential destination for the championship.