Saturday, April 11, 2009

South Korea begins F1 track construction

Construction has begun on the site of the Korean International Circuit in South Korea's South Jeolla province as the endeavour gets under way to host the country's first Formula One race in October 2010.

At 5.6 kilometres in length, including a 1100-metre straight, the track promises to be the longest in Asia.

Situated over 350 kilometres southwest of Seoul, the venue's plans show enough space for 135,000 spectators, of which 120,000 will have access to grandstand seats. The Hermann Tilke-designed circuit, featuring a harbourside portion with grandstands facing the pitlane and the ocean, will be run counterclockwise.

The semi-permanent track is a joint venture between private and public organisations; the Korean Grand Prix has a seven-year contract running from 2010 to 2016 with a renewable option.

The venue's promoter, Korea Auto Valley Operation (KAVO), expects that the construction work should be completed by mid-summer next year, allowing for a four-month gap before the Korean Grand Prix debut.

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