Delays in Russia

16/05/2012

Russian Automobile Federation advisor warns of delays in construction of Sochi circuit due to "politics".

The Sochi circuit is due to host Russia's inaugural Grand Prix in 2014, months after the Winter Games are held at the Sochi Olympic Park, however, Igor Yermilin, an adviser with the Russian Automobile Federation, claims that following a reshuffle of the local government (Krasnodar) work has almost come to a standstill.

Among those who have lost their positions in the reshuffle are representatives of Omega the company responsible for the Formula One project.

"In the Krasnodar region there has been have been quite serious changes in the leadership," Yermilin told Rianovosti.com. While the regional governor has been re-appointed; "the entire rest of the team has changed, including people from Omega who signed the contract on holding the Russian Grand Prix".

"As soon as a Krasnodar government is appointed, they will return to this question" Yermilin continued. "The main thing at the moment is the Olympics, the Grand Prix is on the back burner. Although there may be serious delays in meeting preparation deadlines."

Asked if he feared the project could fall through, Yermilin was adamant. "I have no doubts that this event will be held successfully. Our country has never failed in delivering such big international events, nor has it neglected its obligations. Especially considering Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin has become our president."