After successfully hosting the first international F1 event at the Buddh International Circuit, Greater Noida, India is planning to design its second circuit in a city that will be on par with Monaco. The Monaco Grand Prix circuit has been declared as the "most beautiful sporting location in the world". This circuit has been maintained over the years by the support of Monaco’s royal family. As such, Goa seems to be the best location in India to compete against Monaco.
According to sources, promoters of the Formula 1 event in India are keen to design the country’s next circuit in Goa. Swapnil Naik, Tourism Director, confirmed the news that Goa has been chosen by promoters. He said, "Yes, we have been approached for a F1 circuit in Goa. We have decided to go ahead with it." So, if everything goes according to plan, F1 giants like Ferrari, Red Bull and McLaren will soon be landing in Goa for promoting the motorsport.
The promoters have been in constant touch with the government of Goa to take the plan to next phase. They are searching for a suitable place in Goa where F1 circuit can be built. On answering questions related to the exact location, Naik commented, "We are looking first at our own properties which were acquired by the state government for tourism purposes. We have quite a few by the coast. So, it could be anyone of them."
An India-based company that had earlier set up F1 circuits in Noida and Bahrain feels that Goa can compete against Monaco circuit in terms of scenic beauty. The government of Goa is happy with the move as it believes that the F1 event will further promote the Goan tourism industry.
For now, the state government has a tough task as it has to work in collaboration with the tourism department to decide the final location where F1 circuit can be designed. Along with this, the committee has to chalk out infrastructural projects that would include entertainment parks, boxing arenas and golf courses, to name a few.
With a lot to be done for establishing the 2nd F1 circuit of the nation, the fans can rejoice from the fact that India grabbed headlines all over the world for hosting its first-ever F1 event. The Buddh International Circuit was appreciated from all quarters and was called one of the best circuits in the world. Sebastian Vettel, winner of the first Indian Grand Prix, stated, "What the people did here in the short amount of time to put up this arena is incredible. All in all it was fantastic and I'm very proud to be the first winner here. We are still hungry, we are not lacking motivation. I love what I do and we don't want this (season) to end."
If F1 circuit in Goa is built on time, then it may witness even greater success than Greater Noida. This is because the new circuit will be built amidst natural beauty and promise to give F1 drivers the experience that the Monaco Grand Prix Circuit is known for.
