F1, MotoGP Return to India on the Cards

Recently, India has seen efforts to bring back major international motorsport events, with developments indicating a possible return of both MotoGP and Formula One (F1) to the country.

Two separate developments—policy discussions led by the Union Sports Ministry and a formal agreement by the Uttar Pradesh government—signal a broader push to bring global racing back to Indian tracks.

Discussions on Formula One Revival:

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya recently convened a meeting with officials of the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) to explore the re-establishment of Formula One racing in India. The meeting held in March 2026 focused on developing a strategy to strengthen India’s motorsport ecosystem and evaluated the feasibility of hosting large-scale international racing events again. The meeting also addressed the need to promote motorsport talent and improve infrastructure to meet global standards.

Previously, from 2011 to 2013, India hosted Formula One races at the Buddh International Circuit. However, the event had to be discontinued due to financial and regulatory challenges.

Uttar Pradesh Signs MoU to Revive MotoGP:

In February 2026, the State Transformation Commission of the Government of Uttar Pradesh signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AVW Global, a motorsport consultancy founded by former MotoGP rider Karel Abraham.

The agreement aims at bringing premier international motorcycle racing competitions, including MotoGP and the Asia Road Racing Championship, back to the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida.

Under the partnership, AVW Global will work with the Uttar Pradesh government to plan, coordinate, and properly manage international racing events at the circuit. The goal of this collaboration is not only to organise individual races but also to ensure that these events are conducted in a sustainable and structured manner.

Officials have indicated that the initiative seeks to establish a long-term motorsport ecosystem in the state, which may include investments in racing infrastructure, talent development, and event management capabilities.

Renewed Momentum for Indian Motorsport:

When looked at together, these developments reflect a broader effort by both central and state authorities to revive India’s presence in global motorsport. While the MotoGP initiative represents a concrete administrative step through a formal MoU, the discussions on the return of Formula One remain at an exploratory and policy stage.

The Buddh International Circuit, which previously hosted both Formula One races and international motorcycle racing events, remains one of India’s most advanced racing facilities. Reviving MotoGP and other championships at the venue could help restore its role on the global motorsport calendar.