Formula One Latest: 9th October given as a deadline for finalization of a Korean track
Finally the much anticipated date has been announced. The Korea Auto Valley Operation (KAVO) has declared that the South Korean Track would be ready on 9th of October. Currently engineers from Europe and South Korea
are together engaged in carrying the last and final work on the surface of the newly built track in Yeongam.
The track lies around 320 kilometres south of Seoul, the capital of South Korea and one of its biggest and most popular cities.
The South Korean track is expected to host the first race on it at the end of October. However, the final verdict would be given after the final test of the circuit which would be carried on 10th of October. The inspection
of a new Formula One track is normally held 60 days prior to the race. However, special relaxation was given to the organisers of the race as the track had to go through the finishing touches. The 21st of September was later decided as the final
inspection date. Nevertheless the track was not completed and finally 10th of October came as the last date for checking. Observing the situation, Bernie Ecclestone, the Formula One supremo, for the first time in September pronounced his doubts for the event
saying that he is afraid that FIA might need to cancel the race from the calendar.
Since the last inspection day has passed, FIA has strictly asked for a daily report from organisers.
Now, as the final race day approaches, the spokesman of KAVO, Kim Jae told AFP, “Work on the final surface layer will probably be done by Friday.”
He further said, “Other facilities such as mobile stands, parking lots and a pedestrian overpass will not be ready when inspectors from the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) visit the circuit on October 11. However,
we are confident that inspectors will see a complete track down at Yeongam.”
He explained that as per special instructions from FIA they are supposed to pay special attention towards the safety of the track. As per the FIA rules unless the security of the drivers as well as the race viewers is not assured
a race is not likely to take place.
The circuit is the result of a joint venture between a private firm and the provincial government; a part of many other projects carried by the government to improve the image of the country.
The 24th of October, 2010 has been scheduled as the final day to host the race.
While explaining the situation, Kim clearly stated that the only reason for the delay was the bad weather. He also added that the builders of the Korean track had little experience in constructing racetracks, which was another
big reason for the late work.
Nevertheless, Kim is confident that all work would be completed a day before the final inspection.
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