India’s F1 Dream Gains Momentum as Sports Ministry Recognises FMSCI

The Sports Ministry has provisionally recognised the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) as a National Sports Federation (NSF), a move expected to strengthen the governance, promotion and development of motorsport in the country.

The recognition, granted through an order dated July 23, follows FMSCI’s application submitted on June 11. The Chennai-based federation, headed by Arindam Ghosh, has been directed to amend its constitution and Memorandum of Association (MoA) to comply with the National Sports Governance Act, 2025, and related rules within the stipulated timelines.

The decision is significant as it gives FMSCI a greater role in shaping India’s motorsport ecosystem and is expected to improve coordination between the government and the national sporting body. The Ministry has also relaxed certain norms concerning minimum affiliation requirements for state units and stated that FMSCI will play a major role in promoting and developing motorsport in India.

The move comes as the government explores the possibility of bringing Formula 1 back to India. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya recently announced plans to establish a Task Force to assess the challenges and benefits of hosting major motorsport events. The proposed Task Force will examine the economic, tourism and investment benefits of international motorsport while identifying infrastructure and operational requirements. It will include representatives from FMSCI, the Sports Ministry, the Uttar Pradesh government and the owners of the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida.

The recognition is subject to compliance with government guidelines on financial probity, anti-doping and governance, with the Ministry warning that it may revoke the status for violations or misrepresentation of facts.

India hosted Formula 1 races from 2011 to 2013 before the event was dropped due to taxation and financial issues. The government is now targeting a possible F1 return by 2028. While NSF recognition does not guarantee Formula 1’s comeback, it provides a stronger institutional framework for motorsport development and could support coordinated efforts to attract major international racing events to India.