Images: Tendulkar meets Schumacher and Ecclestone

A self-confessed Formula One fan, Sachin Tendulkar met seven-time world champion and 'dear friend' Michael Schumacher at the Mercedes team building ahead of this afternoon's inaugural Indian Grand Prix on Sunday.

Tendulkar flagged off India's maiden F1 race, arrived at the newly-constructed Buddh International Circuit with his wife Anjali and daughter Sara.

However, his son Arjun was conspicuous by his absence. The star Indian cricketer was received at the circuit by promoters of the race, Jaypee Sports International's Managing Director Sameer Gaur.

Soon after arriving at the circuit, Tendulkar met F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone at the lounge area and had a nearly half-an-hour interaction with him.

The duo was later joined by legendary racing driver Jackie Stewart and Bollywood actor Gulshan Grover.

The cricketing icon then headed straight to the Mercedes team building where he exchanged pleasantries with Mercedes team principal Ross brawn before meeting his long-time friend Schumacher.

Tendulkar also introduced his wife and daughter to the German driver and met the other Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg before heading straight to the VIP area.

Apart from Tendulkar, a host of other celebrities from the sporting world and Bollywood are also expected to grace the country's maiden F1 race later this afternoon.

Cricketers who are expected to be present during the race include India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, whose love for speed is well known, Yuvraj Singh, Virat Kohli, VVS Laxman and England's Kevin Pietersen.

Tennis star Sania Mirza will also grace the occasion. Besides that Shah Rukh Khan, Arjun Rampal, Hrithik Roshan, and Abhishek Bachchan will also be present at the event.

Tendulkar described waving the chequered flag at the end of the inaugural Indian Grand Prix here as a memorable experience in his life."What an experience it was to wave the chequered flag!!! Got to keep it as well!!!," Tendulkar wrote on his Twitter account.

He also praised the organisers, Jaypee Group, for the facilities at the circuit and the successful hosting of the race."Wonderfully organised F1 event by Jaypee. A world class track with excellent facilities for spectators. Truly a memorable day for all of us," he said.