• ESPNF1 interview: Vicky Chandhok

The final countdown

September 5, 2011

With the inaugural Indian Grand Prix less than two months away, Dhananjay Khadilkar caught up with Vicky Chandhok, the president of the Federation of Motor Sport Clubs of India, for an update on the circuit's progress

Could you tell us about the state of readiness of the circuit?
FIA delegate Charlie Whiting, who had come for inspection on Wednesday, was more than pleased at what he saw. He remarked that the circuit had exceeded expectations and he strongly feels that the Indian GP will be a phenomenal success. The actual circuit in terms of racing is 95% ready. The remaining 5% includes minor things like marshals' posts etc. However, as far as inspection and homologation is concerned, it's 100% complete. We will have soon have inspection of medical facilities by FIA's Jean-Charles Piette.

What did the latest inspection involve?
It involved the inspection of safety parameters, race control, safety barriers, guard rail fencing... basically, logistics of the running of the race, all of which Charlie was happy about.

Why will the certification happen just a week before the race?
The final inspection, so to speak, has been done. The document of Grade 1 certification of the track will be given a week before the race which is normal. It's a normal practice followed by the FIA.

Have FIA made any suggestions or demands?
Not at all. There is a minor matter of shifting of a marshal's post and realigning a safety barrier, which are being done.

Relatively new venues like Turkey, which has been dropped from the 2012 calendar, and China were characterised by low crowd turnouts. How will the Indian GP fare in this regard?
That's the question I can answer after the first year. I am confident that this year's Indian GP will witness a sell-out crowd. There is no other reason for me to believe otherwise. Ticket sales have been encouraging, it will be a full-house. There's no reason to doubt the existence of Indian GP in the future. As you know, the 2012 calendar has already been announced with the race in India on October 28.

Are you happy with India getting the October date for 2012?
Absolutely. The earlier date was a problem because there are state elections at that time. The entire infrastructure of the government would be working towards the elections. Besides, heat in Delhi during summer is not pleasant. I am thrilled that the race will be held in October.

How important is it that there is an Indian driver for the Indian GP?
Exceedingly important. India loves icons, the country loves heroes. The way India is being projected worldwide today as a nation that is technologically advanced, it is important that there are Indian drivers. It's very important for the Indian public, it will be better if we have an Indian driver. I don't see why Indian drivers cannot be on the grid, not only for the Indian GP but also for other races.

In India, cricket is not only popular among fans but also with corporations. How will Formula One measure up?
The Indian GP is going to open up the eyes of the corporate sector. It will make them look at the platform of Formula One as an effective medium for branding.

Can we expect a dash of glamour for the race?
Certainly. From what I know, Shahrukh Khan (famous Bollywood actor) has already bought a special box for the race.

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