• Russian Grand Prix

Russia promises 'top-class' F1 circuit

ESPN Staff
July 16, 2012 « McLaren's development will remain 'aggressive' | Caterham targets midfield at next two races »
A model of the proposed Sochi circuit © Getty Images
Enlarge

Organisers behind the venue for the 2014 Russia Grand Prix insist the new circuit is on target to be completed and have promised a "top-class racing track".

Earlier this year stories emerged that the project, which is based at the venue of the 2014 Winter Olympics, could face serious delays after a reorganisation of the regional government. But Mikhail Kapirulin, director general of the company behind the construction of the circuit, Omega, insists everything is going to plan.

"We solved all the problems in projecting the track," he said. "We're building the track in tight co-operation with our colleagues, who are building Olympic venues in Sochi. It makes us confident that we will build a top-class racing track in Sochi. It will be a great track."

Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton took part in an F1 demonstration run in Moscow over the weekend and said he would like to see a street circuit in the capital city.

"I like street races very much," he said. "It's terrific to see the city's architecture and people during the race, it's just an unforgettable feeling. It would be great to race in the night in Moscow like we did in Singapore. Many Formula One pilots like that race most of all."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
ESPN Staff Close