2013 Abu Dhabi Sidelined, 2014 Date Being Explored
V8 Supercars and Abu Dhabi Motorsport Management areexploring the potential for a new date for 2014 after it was announced that anevent at Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi this year had been sidelined.
V8 Supercars raced as the only support category to FormulaOne at the spectacular Yas Marina Circuit last November; however, participationat the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is subject to the approval of the Formula Oneentities.
V8 Supercars announced late last year its dates for 2013,which included the Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The FOM advisory, however, means there is no space for V8Supercars this year; and it is too late to find an alternative based on thestanding calendar, and the Yas Marina Circuit schedule.
“V8 Supercars have been absolutely amazing in the threeyears we’ve worked with them building a fanbase for the sport locally and inthe Region,” Yas Marina Circuit CEO Richard Cregan said today. “As one of themost exciting motorsport categories in the world we hope to see them back atYas Marina Circuit soon.”
V8 Supercars CEO David Malone said the category understandsthe decision of FOM based on its calendar requirements for the GP2 and GP3categories. The V8 Supercars Board and all teams have been advised and arecomfortable with the decision for 2013.
It means the teams will have more time to recover and prepare forthe Phillip Island 400 in November which now follows the last of the enduranceseason, the Armor All Gold Coast 600.
“It has always been clear that FOM ultimately decides, orapproves, ‘support’ categories that run in conjunction with Formula One,” Mr.Malone said.
“We were acutely aware of this when we announced the 2013 calendar,with FOM then making this decision in late December. We thoroughly enjoy competing alongsideFormula One and are absolutely comfortable with this news.
“There are contingencies in place and we will discuss theoptions, which may include racing on an alternate date to Formula One in 2014,with Yas Marina Circuit as soon as possible.
“What is very clear is the outstanding relationship we havewith Richard Cregan and his team at Abu Dhabi Motorsport Management; and acommitted combined will to find an alternative solution that fits for all.
“V8 Supercars and ADMM will announce any new arrangements assoon as they are decided.”
The V8 Supercar season opens with a pre-seasontest day for all teams at Sydney Motorsport Park on February 16, then theamazing Clipsal 500 in Adelaide from February 28 – March 3.
