2012 F1 calendar set for major overhaul
Although the FIA published its version of the 2012 schedule at its most recent meeting of the FIA World Motor Sport Council last month, it is understood that Ecclestone has undertaken a major reshuffle in the plans for next year.
With teams concerned about the first race being in Bahrain – because of the still uncertain political situation and the spotlight that could overshadow the season build-up ahead of the event's return to the calendar Ecclestone's primary focus was on sorting out what to do with the Sakhir date.
As well as that, there was some concern in the United States about the possibility of hosting the new race in Austin in June when very high temperatures could prove troublesome for drivers, teams and spectators.
Sources have revealed that Ecclestone has now finalized his major reorganization of the calendar, which he has given to the teams for them to highlight any issues they have.
It is understood that he plans for the 2012 season to now start in Australia, with Bahrain shifting to a November date where it will be fitted in as a back-to-back with Abu Dhabi.
This will give Bahrain authorities an extra nine months to ensure the political situation in the Gulf state is improved enough for there to be no concerns from teams about the staging of the event.
As well as moving Bahrain to later on in the calendar, it is also understood that Austin will be moved to the end of the campaign with it becoming the penultimate race of the season before Brazil. The two events will also form a back-to-back.
The shifting of Bahrain means that the 2012 season is now likely to start with the Australian Grand Prix, which will return to being a back-to-back event with Malaysia. Autosport