Sep.9 (GMM) Martin Whitmarsh on Friday played down reports the inaugural Indian grand prix could be called off due to a tax issue.

But the McLaren principal, who doubles as the chairman of the teams association FOTA, admitted that the issue needs to be sorted before the F1 circus can commit to travelling to Delhi next month.

The BBC reports that, with the issue currently unresolved, teams and drivers will have to pay big tax bills to the Indian government.

"You don't go somewhere if you're going to be penalised," he said. "We have been unable thus far to get assurances from the Indian tax authorities that this manner will be resolved in a satisfactory manner.

"But I don't believe (the race) is seriously under threat. I am sure this will be resolved," Whitmarsh added.

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