F1 rules out India race in 2027 after minister's claim

India’s sports minister claimed a Formula 1 race would return to the Buddh International Circuit in 2027, but F1 denied plans, citing a limited calendar and tax disputes that halted the 2011‑13 event.

Why it matters:

• India is a fast‑growing F1 market; a race could lift global TV ratings and attract new sponsors.
• The sport runs a capped 23‑24‑race calendar, so a new venue means dropping another or expanding the schedule.
• Settling the tax dispute that halted the 2014 event would set a template for future negotiations with prospective hosts.

The details:

• 2011‑13 Indian GP held at Buddh International; Sebastian Vettel won all three, clinching his fourth world title in 2013.
• A 2014 race was cancelled after a tax dispute, and a promised 2015 return never materialised.
• Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya says the tax issue is being resolved and a decision could be made within six months.
• F1’s spokesperson stressed that interest in new venues is high but “there are a limited number of spaces on the calendar.”
• Other candidates for future slots include Thailand, South Africa and South Korea.

What's next:

• F1 will keep talks, but a 2027 race is unlikely without calendar expansion.
• Mandaviya cites the Iran conflict as a reason India is seen as a safe venue.
• The 2027 calendar will be released later this year, confirming which circuits secure the remaining slots.