Korean Grand Prix makes starting line
Formula One’s governing body the FIA has given the Korean circuit the go-ahead to host a grand prix for the first time.
After a two-day inspection, Charlie Whiting, FIA race director, described the circuit as “satisfactory” and was pleased with the progress that has been made to host the race on October 24th.
Race promoter and Korean Automobile Racing Association chairman Yung Cho Chung said: “We are delighted that all works are now finished to the complete satisfaction of the FIA, and we join the whole of Korea in welcoming the Formula One fraternity to the Korea International Circuit for the first time.”
There were fears that the race wouldn’t be ready in time, but race organisers say there was nothing to worry about. The race was plunged into further doubt last week with the news that a crane had crashed into the main stand on the start-finish straight. Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone voiced his concerns at the Singapore Grand Prix last month, but teams and drivers in Japan at the weekend believed it would go ahead.
McLaren team principal Martin Whitmarsh said: “I think we have got to respect the fact that a lot of money has been spent, and a lot of effort put in, and I am sure the Korean nation will ensure that there is a grand prix.”
Mercedes team boss Ross Brawn believed the race was always going to get the green light. “As far as we know, yes it will happen. The final surface has been laid and they are finishing off the kerbs and so on... I think the infrastructure will be a bit weak, but we want to race there and we need to do everything we can, as long as it is safe to race there.”
It will be the third-last race of the season, with Red Bull’s Mark Webber leading Fernando Alonso and Sebastian Vettel by 14 points at the top of the drivers’ standings.
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