The new Sochi Autodrom circuit has been given the green light to host this year’s Russian Grand Prix after passing an FIA inspection.
FIA Technical delegate Charlie Whiting visited the all new 5.8km Hermann Tilke designed street circuit on Tuesday ahead of the inaugural Russian Grand Prix in October.
The circuit, built on the site used for the 2014 Winter Olympics, was given a glowing reference by Whiting, who believes the venue is ready to host Formula 1.
“The circuit is in extremely good condition and – yes – it will be issued with a license,” Whiting said in a statement from the circuit.
“Everything has been done according to the plans.
“The kerbs are very good, the verges, the guardrails, the walls – everything is in an extremely good condition.
“Everything has been done to the highest standards and I’m extremely pleased.
“I can say without hesitation that the circuit is ready 60 days in advance, which is very rare really.”
As a result of the inspection, race promoter Sergey Vorobyev is confident the venue will deliver a maiden grand prix without hiccups.
“We were ready for Mr Whiting’s visit and we want to congratulate our builders who have made this positive verdict happen,” said Verobyev.
“We were confident that FIA would appreciate the efforts made by our team to implement the technical details that have been so highly reviewed by Mr Whiting.
“Now that Sochi Autodrom has received a license, everything else is up to the organizers of the events and as such we are working intensely on ensuring that all aspects of the event are fully prepared.
“It is our aim to make this a truly unforgettable event with the comfort and enjoyment of our guests at the forefront of all our efforts.”
The first running of the Russian Grand Prix is scheduled to take place October 12.
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