Formula One: India track will be ready, says chief

MUMBAI: India’s motor sports chief has dismissed concerns about the readiness of the track for the country’s Formula One debut in October but is unhappy about reports the race could be shifted to the stifling heat of April next season. Subject to a final inspection, the Indian Grand Prix will be held at the Buddh International Circuit, about 40 kilometres from New Delhi, on October 30. Media reports have said that Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone has proposed an April slot for the 2012 race. “I am not happy with April because it’s going to be hot,” said Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India President Vicky Chandhok. “But if we have to go in April we will go.”

Published in The Express Tribune, August 7^th, 2011.