Whitmarsh admits Indian Grand Prix tax issue still a concern
By Jonathan Noble
Tuesday, September 27th 2011, 08:48 GMT
Formula 1 teams and drivers have still not resolved all the issues relating to tax at the Indian Grand Prix, despite recent assurances that the matter was being sorted.
Talks have taken place over the past few weeks to allay fears that the sport's competitors could be hit by large tax bills for racing in India - and there was even talk that the situation could go as far as forcing a boycott of the event.
Earlier this month, race organisers Jaypee Sports International (JPSI) offered to pay any customs duties and taxes if required - although this has still not sorted the situation.
There also remain questions about whether individual teams and drivers will also be taxed on their annual income, as India has a claim of 70 per cent corporation tax on 1/19th of every team's turnover.
The Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC) recently rejected a tax waiver request.
McLaren team principal Martin Whitmarsh, who is chairman of the Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA), said he was sure the race would go ahead, but admitted that problems still need sorting out.
"There are some concerns for drivers as well as teams, because it is quite a tough tax regime," he explained.
"I am certainly not competent to tell you where we are at, but there are negotiations and discussions going on. I am sure we will race in India but we need to resolve these issues."
Credit: AUTOSPORT.COM (www.autosport.com)
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