Though the word “Buddh” in the name of the circuit stands for peace and calm, what the fans would really want is an action packed, aggressive and a thrilling race on Sunday. Much has been spoken of the Indian Grand Prix in the past one month and finally India has made its mark in the Racing world with a world-class circuit and excellent facilities. After Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit, it has been hailed as one of the most captivating circuits.
Glitz and glamour of the Buddh International Circuit
When the FIA announced the inclusion of the Indian GP for the very first time in racing history, the entire nation rejoiced after being deprived of much Indian participation in the Formula One arena. It is spread over 875 acres with an approximate length of 5-14kms. Herman Tilke, the creator of many international racing circuits like the Sepang International Circuit, Marina Bay Circuit and the Yas Marina Circuit is the architect of the Buddh Circuit as well.
Situated in Greater Noida, the circuit forms a part of the Jaypee Greens Sports City and built around a cost of $215 billion. When the initial plan was put forward to the teams certain changes were suggested and accordingly the hairpin at turn seven was removed and the track was widened at turn three. The circuit’s main straight, at 1060m is among the longest in F1 as also the pit lane at 600m. Among the most prominent sections of the circuit is the multi-apex turn 10–11–12 sequence. Compared to the fast Turn 8 at Turkey’s Istanbul Park Circuit, it is expected to generate high tire loadings.
The expected lap time for a Formula One car before the race around the 5,137m long track, was 1 minute, 27.02 seconds, at an average speed of 210.03 km/h (131 mph). Sebastien Vettel took the pole in the qualifying sessions clocking a lap time of 1 minute, 24.178 seconds. There is expected to be a lot of dust on the circuit considering the fact that it is just built.
The F1 drivers have called it an exciting and challenging circuit and the long straights are anticipated to have many overtaking points. Vettel said that the first sector was very tricky and that the qualifying was not simple after taking pole position for the 28th time. Seven time champion Michael Schumacher called it “a challenging layout”. After incurring a three place grid penalty, McLaren racer Lewis Hamilton praised the circuit saying, “It’s very fast and flowing, the grip level is fantastic, the run-off areas seem to be good and the kerbs are probably the best of any circuit we visit.”
After receiving a huge thumbs-up from the teams and the FIA officials, the whole nation gears up to watch a home race for the very first time and its all left to the drivers to make the most of the splendid track that India is so proud of.
Tags: Buddh International Circuit, F1, FIA, Formula 1, Formula One, India, Indian Grand Prix, Jaypee Greens Sports City, Racing, Sebastien Vettel
