India in talks over 2012 Grand Prix
Added on Tuesday, November 23rd, 2010 by Carole Nash Editor
India in talks over 2012 Grand Prix
India could host a MotoGP Grand Prix in 2012 after motorsport officials in the country admitted to entering discussions with the Dorna Sports.
The promoters of the Indian Formula One Grand Prix, which will take place at the newly constructed Jaypee Group Circuit in 2011, have confirmed that they have been in talks with MotoGP promoters over an Indian motorcycle grand prix in 2012.
“We are negotiating with Dorna Sports (MotoGP commercial rightholders) to bring MotoGP to India but it’s quite an early stage and we have not reached a deal yet,” a Jaypee Sports International spokesman told Reuters.
The 5.14 km track at Greater Noida, some 35km from Delhi, will host the 18th leg of next year’s Formula One championship on Oct. 30, subject to final approval, and the race promoters are looking at other options to make the track financially viable.
“We have been talking to Dorna as we have been talking to others to explore various other opportunities. Yes, MotoGP might come to India but it’s definitely not before 2012,” the spokesman said.
The prospects of an Indian Grand Prix will appeal to manufacturers, who consider India to be a strong motorcycle market, whilst Indian automaker Mahindra Group is also enthused by the development, committing to launching a team in the 125cc category, the Times of India newspaper reported on Tuesday.
“This is part of our global branding strategy. MotoGP gives us access to a global platform wherein we can showcase our design, technology, engineering and IT capabilities,” Mahindra Group vice chairman Anand Mahindra was quoted as saying by the newspaper.
“The construction of the race track in Noida gives us hopes that MotoGP will come to India.”
