• Russian Grand Prix

Sochi circuit making good progress, say organisers

A view of the new circuit in Russia © Formula Sochi

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The organisers of the Russian Grand Prix have released a statement along with track architect Hermann Tilke saying they are confident everything will be completed in time for the inaugural race in 2014.

The new circuit is being built within the main venue for the Winter Olympics at Sochi and there had been concerns that the F1 project may have to take a back seat. However, in a statement released on Wednesday, the CEO of Formula Sochi, Alexander Bogdanov, confirmed the circuit construction was right on track.

"The construction of the racing track in Sochi is going into high gear," he said. "The 5854 m long circuit is one of the longest in the Formula One World Championship. The autodrome will also host different racing series such as FIA GT World Series, FIA WEC, WTCC, Formula 3, and Russian national championships. We are working through the possibility of hosting motorcycle racing of highest level: Moto GP, World Superbike, and others.

"More than a thousand engineering personnel and workers and 110 units of construction machinery are involved in the construction by OJSC 'Center of Omega', the developer of the Formula One Russian Grand Prix circuit. All the work is aimed at achieving the best quality of the future racing track. Control over construction is performed by designing company Tilke GmbH and Russian experts.

"Summing up 2012 results, it is safe to say that the company "Formula Sochi" gets into gear in the preparation of the Russian stage of Formula One Grand Prix, which includes the enhancing of working relations with international promoter. Close coordination with the group of Formula One companies headed by Bernie Ecclestone gives us a confidence that the Russian Grand Prix will be organized on time and at a high level."

Hermann Tilke, the man behind many of the new additions to the F1 calendar, added that the circuit was set to be "fast" and "interesting".

"Together with Omega and Formula Sochi we are deeply involved in the Russian Grand Prix project and we are glad that all works are going according to schedule considering the large amount of coordination necessary with the Olympic construction. There is no doubt that the circuit will be meeting all the requirements for Formula One and maybe also for the Moto GP.

"The circuit is going to be very fast and technical and offering a number of interesting features. It is a fantastic facility with a great atmosphere and it will be outstanding as the circuit will run through the Olympic Park. I am very optimistic about the future of the unique race track in Sochi and am looking forward to a triumphant start of Formula One in Russia."

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