Formula One: Number 13 proving more elusive than unlucky
FIA remains adamant as it decided that none of the applicants hoping to ensure the 13th vacant constructor’s spot next season fulfilled the criteria set by the governing body. Therefore, the position is to remain vacant for a minimum of two more years as both, the 2011 and 2012 championships shall witness 12 constructors.
It was earlier assumed that the sprint for the final 13th spot was a 2 horse race with Villeneuve Racing and Epsilon Euskadi the most prominent contenders. It seems that the FIA’s rather conservative stance is their fear of a repeat of the US F1 fiasco last season – A possible encore could greatly hamper the motorsport’s credibility.
According to an official statement of the FIA:
“Following the press release of March 19, 2010 calling for expressions of interest to participate in the 2011 and 2012 seasons of the FIA Formula One World Championship, a number of interested parties expressed their interest. “
“It was considered that none of the candidates met the requirements to be granted an entry into the championship. Consequently, the allocation of the 13th team will not be granted”
The rather straightforward statement of Bernie Ecclestone’s men might drop a few heads in the Villeneuve Racing and Epsilon Euskadi camps – Neither have issued a reaction yet. The exclusion of a 13th also comes of as a disappointment for Formula One fans. The addition of two teams this term has already spiced up proceedings, having another constructor would have further made the sport more competitive.
It could have been a move that might just have brought the limelight back to racing and sends a mixed signal as far as the FIA are concerned – A carrot and stick approach that saw the newcomer ‘stick-ed’ out of F1, while a resident scarlet team offered a carrot for issuing illegal team orders.
The decision was followed by the FIA announcing the schedule for the 2011 season on the very same day. The next season is listed to be the longest Formula One season in the sports’ six decade history:
March 13 – Bahrain
March 27 – Australia
April 10 – Malaysia
April 17 – China
May 8 – Turkey
May 22 – Spain
May 29 – Monaco
June 12 – Canada
June 26 – Europe
July 10 – Great Britain
July 24 – Germany
July 31 – Hungary
August 28 – Belgium
September 11 – Italy
September 25 – Singapore
October 9 – Japan
October 16 – Korea
October 30 – India*
November 13 – Abu Dhabi
November 27 – Brazil
*the event is subject to an after-inspection verdict from the FIA.
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