APRIL 30, 2007

More on the Indian F1 bid

More details are now emerging about the bid for a Formula 1 street race in Delhi and a man who is at the centre of the plan is Suhel Seth, an advertising man who these days have interests in image-making and has also been involved in the television industry. Originally the owner of the advertising agency Equus Red Cell, Seth sold control of the business to WPP, the chairman of which is Sir Martin Sorrell, who is on the board of the Formula One group. Since then Seth has set up Counselage, an image management firm which has had clients such as Coca Cola, the city of Delhi and the World Travel and Tourism Council.

The firm has also worked in political campaigning, not least with Sheila Dikshit, the Chief Minister of Delhi.

The next step will be a meeting on May 15 to discuss details with Dikshit, Dr KK Paul, the Delhi police chief, and officials from various other government departments that would be involved, including the Central Public Works Department.

The city hopes that the race will generate considerable income and improve the image of Delhi around the world. The investment necessary for the race to take place is around $100m, allowing for the race fees involved.