Five Countries That Need F1 Races

India

A recent host of Formula One racing, could the Indian Grand Prix make a comeback into the world championship? There are a number of hurdles the race would have to jump to accomplish the task, particularly the tax issues surrounding whether F1 is entertainment or a sport. But if these issues can be resolved, one of the world’s most populous nations would welcome back the series with open arms.

The concept of this race began 1997 with a street circuit in Calcutta. However, the race would never get off the ground until the construction of the Buddh International Circuit outside of New Delhi in 2011. From there, three F1 races would be held at the circuit before the Uttar Pradesh province, where the track is located, wanted to levy taxes on the event, calling it entertainment and not a sport.

This argument surrounding the race in India harkens back to the bitter argument over whether or not auto racing is deemed a sport on a global scale. Despite many facts that have presented the physical and mental strength required to be a racecar driver, many still deride racing as cars that simply go fast. Perhaps this bias is partially influencing officials in this case, or more likely a desire to bring in as much money as possible to the provincial government.

Of course, one of the big proponents for the return of F1 to India could be one of its teams carrying the nation’s flag. The Force India F1 team has seen steady improvement in their performances each year, with Sergio Perez heading into 2017 as a possible contender for race wins. This increase in stature for India’s race team could help lead the world championship back to the subcontinent.