South Korea is on track for its 2010 race

South Korea is perfectly on schedule for its first Formula 1 race. The event organizers claim that their only problem lies in accommodating fans. The first Grand Prix is now scheduled for October 24, 2010 (after being postponed by a week). Spokespersons for the organizers and the Korean Automobile League confirmed on Thursday that everything is on track.

« We are perfectly following the plans, » said Kevin Lee, managing director of the strategic planning department, at the ‘Motor Sport Business’ Forum in Monaco held this week.

« Our plans have us completing the construction of the circuit on July 5th. As of today, it is approximately 60% complete. We are working hand in hand with other people. Tilke is our engineering consultant and he is very pleased with the progress in the construction of the circuit. We have also received representatives from FOM. They were happy with the progress of the site and our region. »

Lee thinks that convincing supporters to come will not be a problem with two airports near the track, which is 350 kilometers from Seoul. However, there are still not enough hotel rooms near the circuit to accommodate the 120,000 spectators expected at the event.

« The accommodations for F1 personnel and spectators are not sufficient at the moment, but we can resolve all the issues. We have already discussed it with Formula One Management and others. There is a possibility to rent cruise ships. I think we will find enough accommodations for the spectators and the staff. The F1 teams are our priority, and we have secured all the hotel rooms for these people. »

South Korea has also ruled out the possibility of becoming a night race as the country wants to gain more knowledge in terms of the Grand Prix: « After an experience of two or three years, we can then consider it, but for the coming years, the races will take place during the day, » explained Lee.