The Formula One grand prix in Delhi will definitely take place in 2011 despite fears over delays in the construction of a new circuit, according to Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone.
Construction work on a new circuit on the outskirts of Delhi with Indian company Jaiprakash Associates Ltd was scheduled to begin in October 2008 but has been delayed to this summer, with completion expected at the end of 2010. A preliminary deal made in 2007 between the Indian Olympic Association and Formula One Management had anticipated India would host its first race in 2009.
President and CEO of the FOA Ecclestone, responsible for the exploitations of the sport’s commercial rights, said all the parties involved are “fully committed” to the project.
"Of course we will deliver... otherwise we wouldn't have entered into an agreement," Ecclestone told the BBC Asian Network. “It's a large, large country with a big population and it's good for the sponsors, car manufacturers and everyone involved in Formula One.”
Indian driver Narain Karthikeyan, who raced for Jordan and tested for Williams, cast doubt over the project last month, saying he didn't believe “anyone would want to invest in motorsport” during the current global economic crisis.
