Tuesday, 19 October 2010

Russia to host F1 grand prix

Formula One chief Bernie Ecclestone has agreed a deal with Russian president Vladimir Putin that will see the country host a grand prix in the near future.

The seven-year deal grants the Black Sea resort of Sochi to host an F1 race from 2014-2020.

However, it is possible the inaugural Russian Grand Prix will not take place until the 2015 season, as Stochi is due to host the Winter Olympics in 2014.

Ecclestone commented: "I sincerely hope Formula One is going to play a big part in what I can see happening in Sochi.

"I'm sure the circuit can be a super circuit. It's all the things we need and wanted, and we are very happy.

"They are trying to build absolutely first-class facilities both for the Olympics and Formula One."

It is likely that one of the current grands prix on the F1 calendar will have to be scrapped to make way for Russia, with Ecclestone recently saying he does not want to expand the season any further than the 20 races due to take place from 2011.

The next race of the current season is the Korean Grand Prix on October 24th.

Posted by Samuel Ball