Russian Grand Prix on course for 2014 curtain raiser
Reports from Russia suggest that preparations for the country’s first-ever Formula One race are looking bright, as the Sochi track is expected to be completed ahead of schedule. Key members of the administrative team are also claiming that the circuit has
the potential to become an instant fan favourite after its inaugural race.
The mayor of Sochi Anatoly Pakhomov told reporters that Russia’s ticket into the elite world of motor sport would easily be ready for it’s unveiling at the 2014 event. Russia have to get the venue ready by 2014 under any circumstances, since it will not
be used exclusively as a race track; instead it will also act as one of the main venues for the 2014 Winter Olympics.
The mayor predicted that the basic features of the track would be finalised as early as a year prior to the first scheduled Grand Prix. However the organisers have a potential conflict, juggling between the Olympics and giving the track a suitable amount
of rest before its F1 curtain raiser. Pakhomov was quick to play down fears of the race being pushed to 2015 if that were the case.
He said, "The specific requirements of managing the two events together is being studied carefully at present as the committee working to oversee the successful implementation of the Olympics becomes fully integrated with the committee being set up to orchestrate
the F1 race which is still in its formative stage.”
On a positive note Andrey Kryanik, the head of one of the main event organisers at Sochi, claimed that the track has all the ingredients to host provide a delightful racing experience for both drivers and spectators alike.
Kryanik said, "The track will be a classic track with an emphasis on good overtaking opportunities, no gimmicks. It will have a mix of high-speed corners, long straights and hairpins. On the one hand you will have the mountains as a backdrop and a city street
track feel at the same time.”
The Russian went on to compare the potential Russian Grand Prix with the likes of Montreal and Monaco; both popular destinations in the Formula One calendar.
The situation with the Sochi track is similar to that with the Korean Grand Prix in terms of the time constraints it faces to be ready on time. While the track in Korea met all technical and legal requirements to be able to host a Formula One race, the lack
of pre-runs on the track made for an extremely slippery surface, which led to many cars crashing out during the course of the Grand Prix.
The Russian organisers however are very optimistic of making the deadlines and being prepared for the race well in advance. With the move into Russia, the six decade old motor sport is clearly expanding and reaching new heights.
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