F1 World champion Mika Hakkinen to inaugurate M.I.K.A. track at Madras International Circuit

Motorsports in India is set for a big step up when double World Formula One champion Mika Hakkinen inaugurates the Madras International Karting Arena (M.I.K.A.) on Thursday, September 19.
The inauguration function will also have Titan Edge and GMT partnering the Madras Motor Sports Club launch ceremony which will be attended by India’s former F1 drivers, Narain Karthikeyan and Karun Chandhok.
The momentous occasion, dubbed Mika@MIKA, will witness “Flying Finn” Hakkinen, F1 World Champion in 1998 and 1999, launching the track located adjoining the start-finish straight of the iconic Madras International Circuit, about 40 Kms from Chennai, thus ushering in a new era as the Madras Motor Sports Club, now in its 71st year, reaches another milestone. The MIKA circuit, which has been under development for almost a year, was designed by UK-based Driven International with Chennai-born Karun Chandhok, advising on the layout.
The MIKA facility provides for spacious garages, a control room, lounge and such conveniences designed to provide a comfortable setting for both competitors and spectators alike.  
The track will be opened to the public from September 21. MMSC president Ajit Thomas said: “The Madras International Karting Arena is a logical extension of MMSC’s expansion plans to convert MIC into a multi-discipline motorsport facility that will cater to both competitive and leisure activities, for all-comers including the Corporates. 
Karun Chandhok said: "I'm very excited to be heading to Chennai for the launch of the MIKA track.