Jul.5 (GMM) Formula 1 expects to decide before the summer break whether any of the grands prix cancelled earlier this season can still be reinstated.
The calendar has remained in flux since the conflict in the Middle East forced the cancellation of the opening Gulf races, with speculation continuing that Bahrain could yet return later in the year.
At the same time, alternative venues including Portimao have also been linked with stepping in should further races be cancelled.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali says a final decision cannot be delayed much longer.
“If the opportunity arises to announce a race that hasn’t yet taken place, we’ll do so at the appropriate time. We truly hope so,” he told Sky Italia.
“If the conditions are right and we stick to our plan, then why not? But a decision needs to be made before the summer break.”
Domenicali said Formula 1 is nevertheless planning for the season to conclude as scheduled in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
“Our task is to ensure that the races are held according to the announced calendar,” he said.
“We’re monitoring the situation, because holding these races would send an incredibly positive signal not only for the sport but also for politics, and we’re moving in that direction.
“If the races go ahead, we’ll be able to say that these problems are behind us.”
Team bosses at Silverstone admitted the ongoing uncertainty presents logistical challenges but expressed confidence that Formula 1 and the FIA will settle on the best solution.
“I think ultimately Stefano and the FIA are going to work through the calendar, so we’ll race what they tell us we’re racing and we’ll be happy to do that,” said McLaren CEO Zak Brown.
Ferrari boss Frederic Vasseur added: “Honestly, I think we are all in the same boat, between teams, FOM and FIA.
“We all want to go to races and we all want to race again and more, but it is like it is. We have huge trust in the FIA and FOM on the calendar.
“They are working hard to find solutions and I’m really convinced that they are doing the best.”
Alpine’s Steve Nielsen agreed.
“I’m sure they’ve got a myriad of versions of the calendar and they’ll go for whichever one world events allow them to do.”
