Adani Group to bring ‘Formula 1′ back to India

Karan Adani, Managing Director of Adani Cement and Adani Ports, confirmed that the Adani Group is actively working on a roadmap to bring Formula 1 back to India at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) in Greater Noida.

The move is strategically tied to the Adani Group’s acquisition of Jaiprakash Associates Ltd (JAL), the debt-laden parent company of the Jaypee Group that originally built the circuit.

The “Jaiprakash” Catalyst

The revival of F1 in India has shifted from a “rumor” to a “corporate strategy” due to a massive distressed-asset deal.

• Takeover Progress: In late 2025, the Adani Group won the majority vote from lenders for its ₹14,535-crore resolution plan to acquire JAL.
• Asset Control: As part of this deal, the Buddh International Circuit (India’s only FIA Grade 1 track) will fall under Adani’s control once the acquisition is finalized.
• Karan Adani’s Personal Role: Speaking at the 70th Foundation Day of the All India Management Association (AIMA), Karan Adani stated he is “personally engaged” in the efforts to restart the sport in India.

Government Support: Waving the Green Flag

Unlike the previous attempt in 2011–2013, which failed due to bureaucracy and high taxes, the current Indian government is actively pushing for the sport’s return as part of a broader “Global Sport” vision.

• Ministerial Visit: Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya recently visited the BIC and held discussions with the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA).
• Resolving Tax Hurdles: A major cause of F1’s exit was the Uttar Pradesh government’s decision to classify the race as “entertainment” rather than “sport,” leading to heavy taxation. Current ministry sources indicate that these long-standing tax disputes are being resolved to make the race commercially viable.
• The 2030/2036 Vision: The government sees F1 as a “benchmark” event to prove India’s infrastructure readiness ahead of its bids for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the 2036 Olympics.

Market Potential & The “NRI” Factor

Karan Adani framed the revival as a way to capture domestic demand that is currently leaking to other countries.

• Stop the “Brain Drain”: He noted that thousands of Indian fans currently fly to Abu Dhabi or Singapore to watch races, and that India has the “untapped potential” to host a similarly high-status event.
• Beyond Racing: The group intends to use the Grand Prix to showcase India’s infrastructure, hospitality, and cultural heritage to a global audience of millions.