Formula 1: Formula racing returns to India! Will the Adani Group’s big bet on the Buddh International Circuit work?
F1 Race in India: After nearly 13 years, talk of a Formula One race returning to India has once again gained momentum. Following its discontinuation in 2013, hopes are rising that Formula One cars could once again race at the Buddh International Circuit in Noida. This time, the growing interest of the Adani Group has reignited excitement around the sport’s comeback.
The Buddh International Circuit, which once gave India global recognition in motorsport, is back in the spotlight. According to Karan Adani, the group is working on a fresh strategy for the world-class track. He indicated strong personal interest in bringing Formula 1 back to India.
Adani Group preparing big move
Reports suggest the Adani Group is preparing to acquire the Buddh International Circuit. Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya recently visited the circuit and held discussions with the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA), signaling potential government backing.
Speaking at the All India Management Association’s 70th Foundation Day event, Karan Adani said the circuit is a key part of the group’s broader strategy. He emphasized that India has a massive Formula 1 fan base and strong growth potential for the sport.
Ownership history of the circuit
The Buddh International Circuit was originally developed by the Jaypee Group through Jaiprakash Associates Limited and its subsidiary Jaypee Sports International Limited.
However, financial troubles hit the Jaypee Group over time. Due to unpaid dues, the land associated with the circuit was taken over by YEIDA around 2019.
In November 2025, the Adani Group won the majority support of lenders to acquire debt-ridden Jaiprakash Associates with a ₹14,535 crore proposal, strengthening its position in the potential revival of the circuit.
India’s Formula 1 legacy
India hosted the Indian Grand Prix from 2011 to 2013 at the Buddh circuit. The event earned global praise for its world-class infrastructure.
At the inaugural 2011 race, then Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati presented the winner’s trophy to Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull Racing, who went on to win all three Indian Grands Prix.
However, the race was discontinued after the state government classified F1 as entertainment, leading to tax disputes.
Challenges ahead
The circuit did see international racing return when MotoGP debuted in India in 2023, but the event has not yet returned despite an initial agreement.
Bringing Formula 1 back will be even more challenging. Hosting fees alone are estimated between $70 million and $150 million, and many global circuits are competing for calendar slots.
According to a December 2025 statement from Formula One, India has around 79 million F1 fans — a strong indicator of market potential.
Bottom line:
While significant hurdles remain, the Adani Group’s interest and possible government support have revived hopes for Formula 1’s return to India. If the acquisition and negotiations move forward smoothly, the roar of F1 engines could once again echo at the Buddh International Circuit in the coming years.