Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Jul 24: The Sports Ministry has granted provisional recognition to the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) as a National Sports Federation (NSF), a move expected to strengthen efforts towards bringing Formula 1 back to India.
The FMSCI had submitted its application for NSF recognition on June 11. The Ministry, through an order dated July 23, approved the request and granted provisional recognition with immediate effect.
The Chennai-based federation, headed by Arindam Ghosh, has been directed to amend its constitution and Memorandum of Association (MoA) in accordance with the National Sports Governance Act, 2025, and related rules within the prescribed timeline.
The recognition comes as the government and FMSCI continue discussions on the revival of Formula 1 racing in India. The Ministry has also decided to provide FMSCI with a larger role in promoting and developing motorsport activities in the country.
However, the recognition will be subject to compliance with government guidelines related to financial transparency, anti-doping measures, governance standards and accurate reporting. The Ministry has warned that recognition may be withdrawn if the federation fails to meet the required norms.
Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya had recently announced the formation of a task force to examine the feasibility of hosting major motorsport events in India.
The proposed task force will study the economic, tourism and investment potential of motorsport events while assessing infrastructure requirements and operational challenges. It will include representatives from the Sports Ministry, FMSCI, the Uttar Pradesh government and the owners of the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida.
The government is aiming to bring Formula 1 back to India by 2028.
India hosted Formula One races from 2011 to 2013 at the Buddh International Circuit before the event was removed from the calendar due to taxation and financial issues.
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has acknowledged the strong interest in the sport among Indian fans but said a return would require the right investment and planning.
According to Formula 1 data, the sport's fan base in India stood at around 79 million in December last year and has grown to nearly 98 million within six months, highlighting the increasing popularity of motorsport in the country.