Indian Grand Prix organisers have been told that a return of their Formula 1 race will only happen if the taxation problems are resolved, but India’s first F1 racer Narain Karthikeyan feels the country hosting the marquee event is a distant reality.
“There is so much to put together. We need sponsors, help from the government, easy customs clearances and more. I don’t think India is ready to host a Grand Prix yet. A packed calendar of 21 races doesn’t help India’s cause either,” Narain said on the sidelines of the MRF Challenge here in Dubai.
Apart from competing in Japan’s Super Formula, the 38-year-old has been actively involved in the development of MRF’s race cars. “My role is to ensure the level-playing field in the MRF Challenge by helping them achieve similar set-up for all machines. I also test the tyres and help the company develop new compounds that last throughout the day. We try and develop tyres which are consistent, easy to use and durable,” Narain added.
Narain lamented on the lack of focus in young Indian drivers, barring a few like Tarun Reddy, Jehan Daruvala and Arjun Maini.
“The hunger is missing. They seem just happy sharing pictures on social media and not focussed on the bigger picture of realising their dreams. If they work harder, I am sure we can see more Indians graduating to bigger stages,” he said.
The former F1 driver lashed out at an ineffective system that makes it tough for the sportspersons to thrive in the country.
“There are many factions and it is just bloated egos. No one is interested in promoting the sport. When I started off, the system was much more unified, we did everything in a constructive manner,” he said.
