Indian Grand Prix aims to erase Commonwealth Games memories

Formula One rights-holder Bernie Ecclestone has given his backing to the new Buddh International Circuit in India, where the country's inaugural grand prix will be staged this weekend.

According to Vicky Chandhok, President of the Indian Motor Sports Federation, Ecclestone proclaimed the new circuit as a "great job" after visiting the venue. Chandhok also highlighted to The Press Association the positive intangible impact of staging the race for India's sports economy.

Chandok explained "it's very significant something like this has come up to showcase India.

"It's not about Formula One, it's not about motorsport, India has never hosted something on this magnitude ever. When I say on this magnitude, I'm not talking about a cricket game or the Commonwealth Games."

"This is an opportunity of showcasing India to 570 million viewers worldwide, to get India recognised as a player capable of hosting the most technologically-advanced sport in the world. Suddenly it's now a patriotic thing, to say 'hey, we can also do it'. It's more about that. This is our first year and there are bound to be endless teething problems per se, but despite that this place is fantastic. It is absolutely stunning."

Part of the $400million Jaypee Greens Sports City project funded by Indian conglomerate the Jaypee Group (JPSI), the Buddh International Circuit is located 40 kilometres to the south of the Indian capital New Delhi.

The 5.14 kilometre long circuit is flanked by seating capacity of 110,000, with provisions to increase it later to 200,000. The 10 kilometre2 Jaypee Greens Sports City will, when complete also includes a 100,000 seat cricket stadium, 18-hole golf course, 25,000 seat hockey stadium and a sports academy.

In a city still reeling from criticism of last year's Commonwealth Games, and the corruption and degradation which blighted it, the arrival of Formula One has been painted by Delhi media as an opportunity for redemption.

JPSI founder Jaiprakash Gaur stated at the recent track opening "we will make up for the shameful memories of the Commonwealth Games. The world's perception of India is going to change after the grand prix."

Entertainment during the event will see rock-band Metallica play on Friday and contemporary pop act Lady Gaga play after the race on Sunday evening.

19th August 2011 - AIRTEL TO SPONSOR INDIAN F1 GRAND PRIX

4th October 2010 - SPECTACULAR OPENING CEREMONY FOR COMMONWEALTH GAMES

2nd February 2009 - 2011 START FOR F1 IN INDIA