Re: F1: A street race in Delhi (underway)

Hermann Tilke, German architect and designer of F1 motor racing circuits 
and auto racer, has already visited Delhi six times to inspect Rajpath — 
the track F1 bigwigs are interested in. “We’d like to position Delhi as 
a street circuit, with the track moving around India Gate down to 
Rajendra Prasad Road. We think it’s a perfect track for F1 racing. We’ve 
already met the Delhi CM once and will be meeting her again to further 
discuss the matter,” he said.

Although the existing infrastructure meets with his approval, some 
additional factors will have to be included on the track. “We will 
prepare concrete structures that can be easily installed and removed. 
And India Gate being the backdrop will offer tourists and spectators a 
perfect and alluring combination of history,” added Seth.

Other track options too are being considered, including a 200-acre plot 
in Noida. Talking about it, Dr. Mallya said this may perhaps be 
“integrated with the commonwealth games infrastructure. As per our plan, 
we want to have a show race in 2008 and then have the actual Grand Prix 
race in early 2009”.

But before that, on May 15, the team will have a detailed meeting with 
Dikshit, the Delhi police chief, officials of the land and development, 
and fire departments, the home ministry besides the representatives of 
NDMC and CPWD, informed Seth, adding that F1 will be a major money 
churner for the capital. “At this moment, we’re looking at investments 
ranging around US$ 100-120 million (around Rs 400 crore). But we are 
hopeful that with the first race we will be able to generate around US$ 
180-200 million.”

cont'd....
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Cities/City_Supplements/Bombay_Times/Racy_Rajpath/articleshow/1974005.cms