Teams travel to uncharted territory for the inaugural Indian Grand Prix this weekend, and although both titles are already decided, victory at the Buddh circuit will still be highly coveted. Sam Tremayne previews the 17th round of the 2011 season

Formula 1 prepares to make history this weekend as it heads into the previously uncharted territory of India for the country's first ever grand prix. With India's growing economic importance the race makes commercial sense for the manufacturers and sponsors, but pre-race fever – helped by having Indian drivers and an Indian team owner – means tens of thousands of fans are expected to descend upon the Buddh International Circuit. And the hope is that the race, unlike so many new venues, will prove a lasting success with the local population.

The race will also provide an interesting test for teams and their drivers. Already thousands of simulator miles have been done, and the expectation is that the Buddh circuit will be one of the fastest on the calendar.

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