Ecclestone looking forward to problem-free Indian GP

Bernie Ecclestone: "It's a really nice circuit, from what I have seen" © Sutton Images

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Bernie Ecclestone has moved to allay concerns over the upcoming Indian Grand Prix and is confident it will run without a hitch.

While original concerns about import tax appear to have been put to bed, in recent weeks it has emerged that drivers and teams could face income tax during their week-long stay in the country. But Ecclestone insists the stories come down to a misunderstanding.

"There has been some problem with tax and stuff but I don't think people have understood the structure," he told the Deccan Herald. "People haven't quite understood the right way to go about it. It's all pretty clear, there is no real problem."

He added: "As far as security goes, I don't think we can see anywhere in the world where there isn't a bit of uncertainty these days. I don't think there is the slightest bit of concern, though. Everything has been done and I suppose the best work will be done."

And he has no concerns about the readiness of the Buddh International Circuit outside Delhi.

"Some super reports are coming in," Ecclestone said. "People are all there and they are doing a fabulous job. The drivers will be very, very happy with the track. It's a really nice circuit, from what I have seen.

"All these new events are really a learning curve. When people make cars or anything, they have a look-see and go on, the same thing will apply to the Indian GP. We are making good progress on the track, and even if we had come in 2012, we would have been in the same position."

However, local farmers are still threatening to protest during the grand prix weekend as they feel they have not been adequately compensated for the land that was handed over to the organisers to build the Buddh International Circuit.

"We are not against the race, but we feel we have been short-changed in the deal," local farmer Virender Dhada told AFP. "We will stage protest marches and sit-ins next to the track starting October 23 to ensure our voice is heard.

Dhada added: "We are only demanding what is our right. The authorities have been turning a deaf ear to our legitimate demands. If they are willing to talk to us even now, we will stop the planned agitation."

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