Apr.8 (GMM) A compromise between fully daytime and a ‘twilight’ start time for next year’s Malaysian grand prix is likely
In the wake of Sunday’s rain-drenched and shortened evening race, organisers questioned the wisdom of the twilight concept, while Bernie Ecclestone expected to reap the benefits of hugely better television figures
Indeed, the respectively German and British RTL and BBC broadcasters have confirmed hugely superior ratings compared with one year ago
Moreover, following the ‘twilight’ debut in Melbourne last month, viewing figures for the Australian grand prix were double those of 2008 and three times higher than in 2007, Formula One Management has announced
But experts at the verge of the races widely agreed that while a 5pm start worked fine for Melbourne, the earlier sunset and evening weather of Malaysia means a tweak for 2010 and beyond is necessary
“I think (next year’s race) should start at 4pm,” Williams technical director Sam Michael admitted
