New Delhi: The construction of the track for this year's inaugural Indian Grand Prix is well ahead of schedule, the country's motorsports federation said on Monday.
International Automobile Federation (FIA) race director Charlie Whiting visited the 5.14-km track on Sunday and was pleased with what he saw, President of the Federation of Motorsports Clubs of India (FMSCI) Vicky Chandhok told reporters.
"The track is well ahead of schedule," Chandhok said by telephone.
"He (Whiting) was very pleased. He liked the track and was impressed by the progress made so far. He suggested some changes which will be incorporated to encourage overtaking."
Subject to a final inspection, the Indian Grand Prix will take place on Oct. 30 at the circuit that is being built around 35 km (22 miles) from New Delhi and will be the 18th race on the Formula One calendar.
News that the track is ahead of schedule contrasts with the construction delays that have been a recurring problem in recent major sports events in India.
Last year's Commonwealth Games were widely criticised by media and fans for the poor state of facilities and accommodation and ended up being a national embarrassment, salvaged only after a last-minute scramble by the government.
Memories of chaotic organising were revived last month when Eden Gardens, one of India's best known venues, was stripped of the England v India cricket World Cup match following a delay in construction work.
Bureau Report
First Published: Tuesday, February 15, 2011, 12:15