The Buddh International Circuit was opened in 2011 just in time to hold the Indian Grand Prix at the start of a five-year contract to run the race. With the undulating Istanbul Park one of his better creations thus far, architect Hermann Tilke used four million tonnes of earth to build man-made hills and provide elevation change. Initial reaction was positive from drivers and spectators alike, but the race was abandoned after just three editions. Sebastian Vettel starred here – winning all three Indian GPs to be held and clinching his 2013 World Championship at the circuit. Absent from the 2014 Formula 1 calendar, Buddh returned to the international racing scene with India's inaugural MotoGP race in 2023 although the following year's race was cancelled with four months notice.
