Thursday, April 17, 2008
Indian motorsports all set for a change
A1 Team India CEO Andaleeb Sehgal is hell-bent to make India a prominent destination in the world of motorsports and he has some big plans to achieve that -- by developing the grassroots.
"We have started the programme of building Team India. We have a drivers and engineers development programme, we have the youngest and eldest drivers. 
Unfortunately Aditya (Patel) is not here, he is driving somewhere else. We are in talks with Armann. We want to pick up seven or eight drivers. Should Narain be far ahead on points and can skip some races, we can introduce some drivers. We want to run a bouquet of drivers," Sehgal said.
"Spice Group has launched its Team India Motorsports, we are an NGO of motorsports though it's open to a vibrant debate. We have an ambitious plan, we want to introduce as many formats in motorsports as possible."
He said this year a home series will be launched which would change the scenario of motorsports in India.
"We are conceptualising a series in India which will allow home drivers to drive in India than drive outside the country. We are in talks with partners for five-six venues for a seven to eight race series. The blueprint is ready, the roll-out plan is in play. I think early June will be a good time to launch it."
Sehgal said the series would provide the Indian drivers a first-hand experience of competitive racing and mould them for bigger events.
"We have zeroed down on five venues. It could be roads, a piece of land or an unused airport. The constructors are coming forward. The budget is not heavy like F1 or A1. These tracks will give exposure to our drivers who come from protective environments. In bigger places like Sepang they lose out and the European drivers' mental strength
demoralises them."
About A1 GP coming to India, Sehgal said, "We are trying very had and A1 GP is also trying very hard. But there are many protocols while bringing an event of this kind. But we have a very good chance of putting a race next season.
"Several Indian bodies, like Incredible India, airport authorities, construction companies are keen. It has been on fast track in last six months, the hype has started. And there are no hurdles, leaving aside matters related to logistics."
He said a few venues were being studied where the A1 GP could make its debut in the country.
"We have zeroed on in two-three venues. It could be Gurgaon and places around New Delhi, Goa and Jaipur. But nothing has been finalised," Sehgal said.
[Posted by Y]
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