Tamil Nadu CM Vijay to flag off Silverstone Motor Race in U.K.; actor Ajith to compete
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay is visiting the U.K. to flag off the Michelin Le Mans Cup at Silverstone and discuss potential investments for his state. Actor Ajith Kumar is participating in the race, which serves as a benchmark for the Chief Minister's plans to build a 'Motor Sports City' in India.
Why it matters
The visit highlights the intersection of regional politics, international investment, and the growing ambition of Indian states to host global sporting events.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay is set to flag off the Michelin Le Mans Cup at the Silverstone circuit in Northampton, U.K., on Saturday (September 12, 2026) evening, just past 5 p.m. local time. Mr. Vijay, who arrived in London on Friday (September 11), is on his first foreign visit after the Tamil Nadu Assembly election in May 2026. He is also expected to hold discussions with industry and company heads with a view to attracting investments for Tamil Nadu, during his visit.
Earlier this month, Mr. Vijay had announced that he would establish a ‘Motor Sports City’ in Tamil Nadu to host Formula 1, 2, 3, and 4 races. He also announced the intention to build an ‘Olympic City’ in Chennai, which would train athletes for participating in the Olymics.
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