The reigning world champion said India has a large audience for the sport, though a Grand Prix return remains uncertain amid high costs and renovation needs at the circuit.
India has formed a task force to explore bringing the race back to Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida. The country hosted three Grands Prix there from 2011 to 2013 before the event ended amid tax and financial difficulties. Adani Group, the circuit’s new owner, has held talks with Formula One Management, though a near-term return is considered unlikely.
Norris was speaking to PTI ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix. He said he had driven the Buddh layout on a simulator but had never visited the track in person. Formula 1’s latest figures put its Indian fan base at 98 million.
The driver has not yet been to India, but he said one of his closest friends is Indian racer Jehan Daruvala, who was his teammate in junior formula series for several years. Daruvala did not progress beyond Formula 2, but the two remain close.
The Hindu reported that annual hosting fees could range from 300 crore to 500 crore rupees, while major renovation work at the Greater Noida circuit could cost 150 crore to 200 crore rupees.