F1 responds to shock 2027 Indian Grand Prix claim from government minister

F1 will not be returning to the Buddh International Circuit next year (Getty Images)

Formula 1 insists the sport will not be racing in India next year despite an outlandish claim from an Indian government minister on Monday.

F1 raced at the Buddh International Circuit, 30 miles outside New Delhi, from 2011-2013 – with the last grand prix seeing Sebastian Vettel claiming his fourth world championship and the German memorably kneeling and bowing in front of his Red Bull car.

The event then fell off the calendar due to a tax dispute between the FIA and the regional government and while The Independent understands this remains the biggest obstacle to F1 returning to India, Indian sports minister Mansukh Mandaviya declared publicly that the sport will make a comeback at the same track next year.

On Monday, Mandaviya claimed: “There will be an F1 race in India in 2027. This is 100% happening. The first race will be at the Buddh International Circuit.”

However, an F1 spokesperson told The Independent in response: “While India is a valuable market for Formula 1's continued growth with an amazing passionate fanbase, we won't be racing there in 2027.

“Interest in hosting Formula 1 events has never been stronger, and there are a limited number of spaces on the calendar.”

While the 2027 calendar has not yet been published, free slots in the 24-race calendar – which is unlikely to be increased – are at a premium.

Zandvoort is dropping off the schedule after this year and is effectively being replaced by Portugal, while Spa and Barcelona are switching to rotational deals. Madrid is making its street circuit debut in September this year.

Sebastian Vettel kneeled in front of his Red Bull car at the last race in India (Getty)

Nonetheless, Mandaviya insisted discussions are “ongoing” over F1’s imminent return to India. "It will take another six months to work out the modalities,” he added. “The government will help in getting the tax relaxations that had become a bone of contention so that it is a viable venture for the organisers.

“Given the global situation due to the ongoing Iran war, India is being seen as a safe and viable venue for sporting events, including F1.

“We plan to have a Moto GP event before F1 returns. The Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) is in talks with Formula 1 right now, and we will be facilitators.”

After cancellations of races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia this month, F1 will next race in Miami on 1-3 May.