Buddh International Circuit Shut Down Goes Unnoticed As India's Sole F1 and Moto GP Track Bids Adieu Unceremoniously

In what is sad news for motorsports fans, the BIC -- Buddh International Circuit -- shutting down this February has almost gone unnoticed. For all those who were privileged to watch the BIC host three Formula One races from 2011 to 2013 and see Sebastien Vettel of Red Bull Racing win the three Grand Prix, there are many beautiful memories.

In fact, when legend Michael Schumacher also raced for Mercedes in 2012 at the same circuit in 2012, it was one of the wow moments for anyone who has followed the career of the legend. Also, from an Indian point of view, for India's first Formula One star Narain Karthikeyan to compete at the BIC was truly historic.

When this circuit was designed by German Herman Tilke, one of the most famous designers, it was viewed as a big moment for India. All those who witnessed the races there in the period from 2011 to 2013 enjoyed the high-octane races where speed, sound and ambience provided thrills and spills. However, if these three F1 races were to have spurred more growth in motorsports, it did not happen.

Maintenance costs of the circuit were high and it soon ran into a lot of financial trouble. The latest one hears is that the circuit and entire area nearby were sealed in February 2024, leaving those who wanted to use the BIC for their own activity flummoxed.

It is well known that even though there was no big racing for almost a decade at the BIC after 2013, the venue again roared when the Moto GP was held in September 2023. At that time, Marco Bezzechi showcased his skills at the wheels of the powerful Mooney VR46 Racing Team bike and won the race in extremely hot and humid conditions.

After that, the Moto GP was taken off the 2024 calendar, though, from 2025 a fresh deal has been signed to host the races for three years. It is not clear how the high-profile Moto GP will be held next year as the place is now sealed. There have been financial issues and the BIC is now under NCLAT - National Company Law Appellate Tribunal.

Before the Covid 19 pandemic, a certain amount of racing activity was held at the BIC where JK Tyres held their National Racing Championship. They were able to draw crowds up to 50,000, in 2019. This year, too, the Indian Racing League wanted to hold one of its races at the BIC but could not do so.

The BIC's loss was to Chennai's gain as they hosted a street circuit racing, 10 days ago, along the famous Marina Beach. Being different in nature compared to the circuit racing, the street racing was a big hit as they converted iconic spots into great locations which made for great fan experience.

For those who have been to the BIC in the past, the layout and track conditions also offered those who wanted to test the big car makers a chance to feel the raw power and speed of their vehicles. Someone like Narain Karthikeyan had twice broken the lap record at the wheels of a Porsche (Production Car category), five years ago.

Even for testing the EV car, the BIC was used, as the 5.125km long track offered challenging conditions. Those who tested technology and tyres had also used the BIC, but now have to look for other options in South India.