FIA delays Korea International Circuit inspection

The FIA will not undertake a final inspection of the Korean International Circuit until September 28, less than four weeks before the scheduled grand prix on October 24.

It was planned Charlie Whiting would visit on September 21, breaking his journey to the Singapore Grand Prix, but it is claimed that has put back a week because of local holidays. The FIA's own regulations state such an inspection should take place 90 days before the race.

Local organizers are not worried as they believe whatever the outcome of the inspection the grand prix will go ahead as planned. There are too many logistical headaches with teams, travel and the media to countenance a last-minute change of plans.

"The FIA has been receiving weekly updates from its inspector in Korea and the construction company with regard to the track and its safety installations," an FIA spokesman said recently. "The FIA is satisfied with the progress even though a lot of work remains to be completed."

Bernie Ecclestone added: "There are problems but we assume that the race can take place … the circuit is definitely ready, but as for all the buildings, perhaps not."