There is understandable excitement in Indian motor sport circle

There are parameters even for the thickness of the line in the pit lane, the safety standards, 5-Star hotel rooms not more than 30 minutes away from the venue, easy accessibility from an international airport which can accommodate B-52 size cargo aircraftcarrying huge amounts of equipment, the custom arrangements for hassle-free clearance of costly machines/parts, etc. In effect, there is far more work involved after the track and facilities are certified as fit enough to run a F-1 race.

In this respect, Chennai has had some experience as for many years, first at Sholavaram and then at the Irungattukottai track, international events were held involving cars (including single seaters) and bikes from overseas. In fact, Sholavaram was akin to an annual pilgrimage for the motor sport buff as people from across the country congregated in February for two weekends of high octane action.

But for some reason, Chennai is now relegated to the back seat, consoling itself by sporadically conducting some low-level events. And surely, the heartburn will be much more in Chennai now that Calcutta is gearing up for the ultimate in motor sport — the Formula One race.

Of course, each February, races are being held at Irungattukottai, but the ambience, the atmosphere, theexcitement and the thrills of a Sholavaram are conspicuously missing. The crowds, too, seemed to have turned their backs, as witnessed earlier this year, during the McDowell GP races. It is as if the soul has flown from the body.

However, in the wake of the developments in Calcutta, there seems to be a rekindling of interest among Chennai’s motor sport aficionados. There is talk about “doing something big” to revive the glory days.

But a concerted and sincere effort is needed if Chennai is to regain its prime position in motor racing in India. Until then, all eyes on Calcutta.