Why Motorsports Fails To Thrive In India Even The Car Culture Is On The Rise

Motorsports

Perhaps the most daunting challenge facing motorsport’s growth in India is the cost of participation. Motorsport is naturally costly because of entails major capital investments in cars, types of equipment, maintenance of the site, and requisite protective gear. Karting and autocross, primary motorsports that are the entry point for would-be racers in very many countries are still in their infancy or expensive in countries like India. Motor racing is still an elitist affair and this hampers talent search across the broader society.

India is sorely lacking the widespread required structures where motorsports could be held empowering both the amateur and professional levels. Likewise, there are very few international standard racing circuits in India to cater to such race car driving services; some of these are BIC at Greater Noida and MMRT in Chennai. The Buddh International Circuit originally designed for the Formula 1 Indian Grand Prix (2011–2013) is burdened with several financial and legal problems that ultimately led to the cancellation of the event. These create a problem in finding venues to host many wanted, good-quality motorsport events around the country.

In India, print and electronic media more or less are inclined toward sports such as cricket followed by football and kabaddi. Motorsports are hardly given any coverage at all. Lack of media coverage also means that the public never becomes aware of the event, hence few sponsors and a very low turnout.

Formula 1 Indian Grand Prix was partially axed due to high taxes and the difference in legal categorization being entertainment as contrasted to sport.

More often than not, authority in India has not demonstrated a favorable disposition toward motorsport as part of India’s sports culture, unlike countries where motorsport is backed by their government.

The lack of proper policies and bans by bureaucratic authorities continue to put off international and domestic investors in Indian motorsport.

Is there hope for motorsports in India?

Formula 1 on Netflix has awakened the Indian audience toward international racing championships.

There are already drivers Jehan Daruvala and Kush Maini racing internationally, and more young talents are being encouraged.

The increased acceptance of EVs might provide India an opportunity to have environmentally friendly motorsport tournaments such as Formula E.

Conclusion

The growing aspect of having cars and an admiration for automobiles in India provides the need and base for motorsports. However, the motorsport industry needs to be driven to make a breakthrough in decreasing costs on both the automotive and trackside, increasing the availability of appropriate facilities, nurturing young talents, and attracting audiences.

If India invests correctly, gets government backing, and changes its attitude towards motorsports, the nation could be the powerhouse of motorsports globally. Thus, for now, motorsport in India will continue to be more of an enthusiast's pursuit and not a festival for those of the nation.

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