Indian grand prix dream on track

The 5.14km, Hermann Tilke-designed Jaypee racetrack in Greater Noida will see F1 cars burning rubber on October 30 next year, assert the men involved.

The 5.14km, Hermann Tilke-designed Jaypee racetrack in Greater Noida will see F1 cars burning rubber on October 30 next year, assert the men involved.

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"The FIA — Charlie Whiting and his team — will be here in May to check the track and the safety measures," said Mark Hughes, Vice-President, Operations, Jaypee Sports International.

The track has been improved after simulation tests. "The design was confidentially tested by drivers on simulators and they suggested tweaking the corners a little. They found the design exciting; especially the corners -- the double-apex turns 10 and three. The latter has a 14m elevation and will be difficult to manoeuvre while the long straight should generate brilliant speed."

Boris Lazaric, COO JPSI-Construction, is leading the team of engineers constructing the track. "The challenge is considerable despite the surrounding area being flat. However, we have managed to meet the rigid FIA requirements."

He continued, "The main grand stand can accommodate 30,000 people and there are three natural grandstands as well. We hope to accommodate 1.25 lakh spectators. The asphalt is being laid in two layers." Hughes added that the Indian federation is helping by training the officials and marshals.