While the inaugural edition of the race here was not perfect, it wasn't too far off from it either. Organisers this year have worked hard to ensure that the 2012 edition achieves that perfection with numerous changes being introduced catering to not just enthusiastic drivers but equally energetic fans as well.
The revamped track and circuit:
Some said that the Buddh International Circuit was dusty. They will not have much to complain about this year as a greener, cleaner track has been laid out for the race. The green cover has been increased and mechanised dusters to clean the track have been brought in.
The actual racing track which will see the action has also had some changes. The length of the kerbs at turn 6, 7, 8 and 9 have been increased from 5 to 15 metres. The run-off area at turn 10 and 11 of the 5.12 track has been extended by a metre with the gravel replacing the astro-turf.
Last year, a stray dog ventured onto the track and was snapped up by photographers. This year however, expect no such photo-op as all possible intersections have been cordoned off.
What's new for the fans:
Last year was the turn of Lady Gaga to enthrall crowds. This year, on October 28 (Sunday), guitar legend Carlos Sanatana will be strumming up a storm at the Galgotias University Ground in Greater Noida.
As for the actual race-related events, individual tickets have already been sold out and to cater to the large number of fans, the parking space has been increased from 15,000 to 21,000. The number of buses plying from parking lots to the circuit has also been increased.
Weather forecast:
Delhi and adjoining areas have been experiencing pleasant weather throughout October. While track heat was one of the concerns for scheduling the Indian Grand Prix as late as in October, it may prove to be a wise decision again this year as the air temperature for the three days is predicted to be as follows:
Friday: Sunny (Max: 28C; Min: 16C)
Saturday: Sunny (Max: 29C; Min: 15C)
Sunday: Sunny (Max: 29C; Min: 15C)
The average wind speed is expected to be around 7.5mph and the average humidity should be around the 60 percent mark.
* First practice session: Friday, starts at 10am.
* Second practice session: Friday, 2pm to 3.30pm.
* Third practice session: Saturday, 11am to 12 noon.
* Qualifying session: Saturday, starts at 2pm.
* Race: Starts at 3pm on Sunday.
Do note that the gates to the circuit will open at 9.30am on all three days.
Modes of transport and parking facilities:
* A security cordon of 8kms extends all around the circuit. Parking must be booked in advance. Car parking requires a minimum of two passes/tickets.
* Bus service from Noida City Centre Metro Station will ply over the weekend. The tickets must be purchased from ticket box office.
Fans, do keep in mind that...
* Personal food items are not allowed inside.
* Children below 5 years of age are not allowed inside. Children above five years need to wear proper noise-muffing protection at all times.
* Fans with tickets must follow the colour-coded sections. For example yellow colour on the ticket indicates the yellow zone (North Zone). Proper signs have been placed.
* Volunteers can be found in Buddh International Circuit uniform in case assistance is required.
* There are three ATM's inside the venue.
* There are no locker facilities at the venue. For full list of prohibited items, check the website of Jaypee Sports. For convenience, any item restricted at security checks in airports should also be avoided here.
Track stats and drivers to watch out for:
* Capacity: Approx. 100,000
* Circuit length: 5.14 km
* Number of Pit Garages: 41
* Race direction: Clock wise direction
* Speed: 318 km/h
* Turns: 16
* Straights: 3
* Highest Elevation: 14 meters
It does not end there. The next three drivers are locked in a combat of their own - Kimi Raikkonen (167), Lewis Hamilton (153) and Mark Webber (152) will also be engaged in a grueling contest.
Then there is are the Sahara Force India drivers who are fighting Sauber to earn their team a sixth place finish this season. All in all, expect the Indian Grand Prix to be a war waged over three days as each team and every driver looks to push his pedal to the metal and come out as the champion here.
Look, who said what about the Indian F1, 2012:
Lewis Hamilton has said Indian fans make the Grand Prix even more exciting.
Heikki Kovalainen is super excited about being in India.
Buddh International Circuit is one of my favourite tracks, says Maldonado
Raikkonen confident of doing well in India.
Butter chicken on Kobayashi's mind.
Hulkenberg, di Resta want to make Indian GP special
Note: Details on transport and instructions for fans sourced from www.bookmyshow.com and www.bookmyf1.com.
Indian Grand Prix: Buddh circuit's second tryst with F1
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