India' F1 Track on Schedule

Work is underway at a staggering pace on the outskirts of Greater Noida in order to set up the 5.14km state of the art racing track. Designed by the renowned German architect and racetrack designer, Herman Tilke, who also happens to be the man behind tracks such as Malaysia, Bahrain, China, Turkey, Indonesia, and UAE to name a few, the Indian circuit is touted to be one of the fastest circuits. Highlights include a long straight with a small dip, a long corner where the cars can drive at speeds in excess of 250km/h as well as a blind curve created by elevation changes. The track also features wide stretches to allow for overtaking and to ensure an entertaining race. Drivers who have tested the track on the simulators have said that it is one of the most exciting tracks and that they are looking forward to racing on it next year. Incidentally, the driver?s have been able to complete a lap on the circuit in about 82 seconds while testing on the simulator, so it sure is a fast track!  

The Jaypee Group is looking at readying the track by June next year and once homologated by the FIA, the track will host its first GP race in October 2011. The track has been designed keeping in mind other motorsport events as well, including MotoGP and World Superbike Championship events. Further to that the track will also feature a drift circuit, a karting circuit as well as smaller circuits for other motor sporting events. The Jaypee Group is keen on promoting motorsport in the country and is definitely looking at hosting numerous world-class events at this facility.

VIDEO OF THE JAYPEE FORMULA ONE RACING CIRCUIT:

Other salient features about the track include the main grandstand that can seat 30,000 people, a smaller grandstand near turn 3 which promises to be exciting, and another one at near turn 9 and 10. There will be three classes of tickets available for the races and the facility will be able to hold 120,000 spectators. 

It?s a monumental task, and work is underway at a staggering pace. Hold on to your holiday programs for next year, for Greater Noida might just be the place to visit in October for an adrenaline induced weekend of fun.