India steps up bid for 2028 F1 return

India has intensified its effort to rejoin the Formula 1 calendar, with Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announcing a government‑led task force aimed at securing a Grand Prix as early as 2028. The move follows months of growing political interest, after Mandaviya prematurely suggested a 2027 return for the Buddh International Circuit, prompting Liberty Media to deny any agreement while acknowledging India’s strategic appeal.

According to The Indian Express, Mandaviya has convened potential investors to evaluate the nation’s motorsport ecosystem and outline the financial and infrastructural requirements needed to host F1 again. The committee will assess costs tied to upgrading the Hermann Tilke‑designed circuit near Greater Noida and the economic benefits linked to tourism and job creation.

India previously staged three Grands Prix between 2011 and 2013, and the Modi government has now placed sport among its priority sectors, enabling new public resources to support a possible F1 comeback in the country.