The FMSCI applied for this recognition on June 11 of this year, and receiving approval means it is now eligible for financial support from the ministry.
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“…the request from the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) for provisional recognition as National Sports Federation (NSF) has been reviewed, and it has been determined that provisional recognition will be granted to FMSCI as an NSF effective from the issue date of this letter,” the Ministry’s order dated July 23 indicated.
The Ministry has instructed FMSCI, located in Chennai and led by Arindam Ghosh, to modify its constitution/Memorandum of Association (MoA) to align with the National Sports Governance Act and associated regulations within specified timeframes.
FMSCI has been consistently engaging with the ministry not only regarding its recognition but also to strategize the return of F1 to India.
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In granting recognition to the organization established in 1971, the government has eased certain requirements regarding the minimum number of affiliated state units needed for NSF status.
The Ministry also mentioned that it could revoke this recognition if the organization fails to adhere to guidelines concerning financial integrity, anti-doping policies, governance structure, or if it misrepresents any facts.
Last month, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced that a Task Force would be established “as soon as possible” to evaluate the challenges and advantages of hosting major motorsport events in India.
The Task Force will assess the economic, tourism, and investment opportunities arising from these events, while also identifying key priorities, infrastructure needs, and operational requirements for the sector’s sustainable growth.
This Task Force will include representatives from FMSCI, the Sports Ministry, the state government (specifically Uttar Pradesh, where the Buddh International Circuit is located), and the owners of the facility.
The minister aims to have a Formula 1 event in India by 2028.
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India hosted Formula 1 races from 2011 to 2013 before being removed from the calendar due to issues related to taxation and financial matters.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has recognized the significant interest in India but has refrained from providing a specific timeline for the sport’s return, emphasizing the need for appropriate investment and personnel for success.
According to an F1 statement from December last year, the sport’s fanbase in India was reported to be 79 million, which has increased to 98 million in less than six months.
