The delay began with the FIA instructing modifications to two corners, 10 and 19, of the 3.5 km race track around the Island Grounds.
Published Aug 31, 2024 | 9:29 PM ⚊ Updated Sep 01, 2024 | 11:21 AM
Sports Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin said the government is committed to holding the race. (Office of Udhayanidhi Stalin/X)
The scheduled Formula 4 race in Chennai has hit technical and legal chicanes, delaying South Asia’s first night-racing event and sparking angry responses from all stakeholders, including enthusiasts.
The delay of the qualifying session on Saturday, 31 August, began with the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) instructing modifications to two corners, 10 and 19, of the 3.7-km race track around Island Grounds. Safety concerns prompted the FIA to suggest changes.
Additionally, a petition was filed before the Madras High Court, questioning the race’s validity due to the absence of an FIA certificate, crucial for ensuring that the event met international standards.
These issues ignited debates about the preparedness and management of such high-profile events, particularly in a city like Chennai, which is striving to establish itself as a motorsport hub.
Amid these developments, the police enforced traffic restrictions around the race venue. The road adjacent to the track was closed to the public as work on fixing the corners was underway, and traffic was prohibited during the competition time to ensure safety and smooth operations.
Despite the hiccups, Tamil Nadu’s Minister for Youth Welfare and Sports Development Udhayanidhi Stalin underscored the government’s commitment to holding the event.
“The Formula 4 race in Chennai is a prestigious event, and we are committed to ensuring it meets all the necessary standards,” he said on X.
“While the delays are unfortunate, the safety of the participants and the integrity of the race are our top priorities.” His statement aimed at reassure the public and participants that despite the hurdles, the event would proceed with all necessary precautions in place.
தெற்காசியாவிலேயே முதன்முறையாக நடைபெறுகிற #Formula4Chennai on Street Racing Circuit – Night Race போட்டி நாளை மற்றும் நாளை மறுதினம் சென்னை தீவுத்திடல் பகுதியில் நடைபெறவுள்ளது.
இப்போட்டிக்காக தமிழ்நாடு அரசு மற்றும் மாண்பமை சென்னை உயர் நீதிமன்றத்தின் வழிகாட்டுதல்களின்படி… pic.twitter.com/NKGDZFMEnP
— Udhay (@Udhaystalin) August 30, 2024
“Initial approval has been received from the FIA to conduct the Formula 4 car race. All safety arrangements have been properly implemented. The Tamil Nadu Sports Department has released a revised schedule for today’s race start time.” Rajiv Gandhi, DMK student wing president, said.
Due to technical issues, there was a delay in obtaining the licence. The court has now stated that the approval letter must be issued between 12 pm and 8 pm on Saturday. Significant efforts were being made to produce the letter.
Former BJP media cell head ANS Prasad said the licence for the event has not yet been granted. Both the petitioner and the government informed the judge that the issue would be resolved within six hours.
“If this situation is not addressed, the public will be affected,” Prasad said.
“The court has given an additional two hours. If the FIA licence is obtained by 8 pm, it must be immediately notified and emailed to the petitioner. Only then can the event take place. If it is not received by 8 pm, the scheduled events for today cannot proceed,” he said.
The media has been following the developments, with several outlets providing live updates and analyses of the situation.
Public opinion appeared divided, with some praising the government’s focus on safety and regulatory compliance, while others criticising the apparent lack of preparedness that led to the delays.
Photojournalists and Reporters made to wait for hours on the road without a drop of water. Worst event ever organised by the F4 Racing team . @Udhaystalin @tnpoliceoffl @sports_tn @Atulyamisraias #Formula4 #FormulaRacing pic.twitter.com/qKFeYYhGWG
— Tamilnadu Press Photographers Association (@TamilnaduPress) August 31, 2024
The delays and controversies have raised concerns over Chennai’s readiness to host international motorsport events.
The city has been positioning itself as a key player in the motorsport world, with the Formula 4 race being seen as a stepping stone to larger events.
However, the challenges faced during this race have led to questions about the infrastructure and management capabilities required to host such high-stakes competitions.
(Edited by Majnu Babu with inputs from Baskar P).
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