Hyderabad: Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) president, Jean Todt during his visit to India on Friday, told the press in Hyderabad that India had enormous potential to become a motor sports hub.
Mr Todt was attending an awards ceremony organised by the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India as its chief guest. Local favourite Anindith Reddy Konda won the National Champion Driver award for winning the Euro JK ‘16 title. MRF-sponsored Gaurav Gill, who drives for Skoda, won the Motorsport Person of the Year award while B. Vijayakumar was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award for exceptional contributions towards motor sport in the country.
“There is enormous possibility in India for enhancement of the racing culture. It is a fascinating country to race in. But to develop motor sports, road safety should first be given the utmost priority,” Mr Todt said. He added that he was very happy to see young talent being presented awards.
“I’m delighted to see these racing champions in India who are inculcating the interest in sport here,” he said. Mr Todt also spoke about a probable Formula E event for India. “It is not only around Formula One. I also hope that sooner or later India can host a big city Formula E race.”
“You have now a strong Indian team who is Mahindra. So, all been waiting to be able to host one Formula E race in one of your cities,” he said. The FIA boss added that it had been a smooth transition after Bernie Eccelestone’s exit.
“Bernie Eccelestone (F1 supremo) has been doing an amazing job. Now, there is a new ownership. We will learn how to work together and how to see what kind of constructive changes we can apply for the future,” he said. Meanwhile, Mira Erda clinched the Outstanding Women in Motorsport award in karting.
