India doesn’t require another GP, says Bernie

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Bernie Ecclestone doesn’t wait around for the chequered flag at a Grand Prix. The ringmaster of the Formula One circus generally flies out in his private jet soon as soon as the race starts, but the inaugural Indian Grand Prix was a rare occasion, for he watched every lap.

“I will do the same this year,” says Bernie. “I love this country and I am happy spending time here. I really don’t know why. It’s like falling in love with a girl you go out with. It suits me being here and I have travelled a lot even before F1’s entry into India,” said Bernie, who has started as a vehicle dealer before becoming the supremo of the world’s most glamorous sport.

Bernie will turn 83 on Sunday, the race day of the second edition of Grand Prix of India. “I think I should always ignore it (birthday) because the day keeps happening every year,” he smiled.

The response for this year’s race has been lukewarm and the organisers, Jaypee Group, have been struggling to sell the tickets, but Bernie says it’s not a concern and F1 will sustain in India.

“It happens everywhere. The first year always attracts a lot of people and the number then comes down. The circuits which have been hosting Grands Prix for a long time get big crowds because of the motorsport tradition. But I am sure it (motorsport following) will build up in India,” said Bernie rubbishing the rumour that India could host another Grand Prix in Mumbai.

“I think, India doesn’t require another race. Definitely, not at the moment. First, let’s get this race established and build up the culture and following, then we can think about the next. I always believe in going East (Asia) where the future is, because a crazy system is slowly and surely destroying Europe,” added Bernie.

The Buddh International Circuit has drawn a lot of appreciation from the drivers and Bernie is an admirer too. “The organisers built the facility in less than two years which was very impressive. After that they made some changes and now it looks superb. It’s, no doubt, one of the best circuits in the world.

"I am confident that the contract will be extended further,” Bernie says the people and media in India should support Vijay Mallya, who has run into financial trouble. “He has supported the country everywhere and I think it’s time Indians support him. He has run into a little bit of trouble, but I can understand because a lot of businesses across the world are facing tough times. People should be really proud of Vijay for what he has done in F1,” he added.

Force India might be against the idea of taking Indian Narain Karthikeyan on board, but Bernie feels Narain is much quicker than he looks, behind the wheel of minnows Hispania Racing. “But teams pick drivers based on what they feel is right for them. Not just Narain, a lot of drivers are much quicker than they look. For example, this year Michael (Schumacher) would have been a different guy in a Red Bull car,” he signed off.