Archive · 24 Jul 2026
India Pushes for F1 Return with FMSCI Recognition
The Sports Ministry in India has given temporary approval to the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI).
This is a big deal because it helps India bring back Formula 1 races.
The FMSCI needs to follow certain rules and set up a team to see how hosting big races can help India's economy and tourism.
The government wants to have a Formula 1 race in India by 2028.
Right now, there are 98 million fans of Formula 1 in India, which shows how popular the sport is in the country.
The Sports Ministry has provisionally recognized FMSCI as a National Sports Federation (NSF).
FMSCI must amend its constitution to comply with the National Sports Governance Act, 2025.
A Task Force will evaluate the economic and tourism benefits of hosting major motorsport events in India.
The Sports Minister aims to have a Formula 1 race in India by 2028.
The current F1 fanbase in India has grown to 98 million.
- Who
- The Sports Ministry and the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI)
- What
- Provisional recognition of FMSCI as a National Sports Federation (NSF)
- When
- July 23
- Where
- India
- Why
- To promote motorsport and facilitate the return of Formula 1 to India
Pro-Recognition Stance
Critics of Recognition
Government Support
Pro-Recognition Stance
The Sports Ministry's recognition of FMSCI is seen as a positive step to promote motorsport and attract major events like Formula 1.
Critics of Recognition
Critics argue that the recognition process lacks transparency and may not address underlying issues in motorsport governance.
- Recognition Date
- July 23
- FMSCI Headquarters
- Chennai
- FMSCI President
- Arindam Ghosh
- Target Year for F1 Return
- 2028
- Current F1 Fanbase in India
- 98 million
