The promoter of F1’s New York street race has scoffed at reports the event may not take place as scheduled in 2013.
On Monday, a day after North America’s only current grand prix took place in Canada, reigning world champion Sebastian Vettel headed straight to New Jersey to try the new layout at the wheel of an Infiniti road car. Recently, and on at least two separate occasions, F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone suggested the 2013 race was in doubt.
“I don’t know where these rumours are coming from, but this race is going forward,” said promoter Leo Hindery on Monday. “If we had any doubt we wouldn’t have brought Sebastian and all these people here today,” he told the Associated Press.
Red Bull driver Vettel sounded happy with the layout, which he described as “truly unique”.
“And this,” he added, pointing to the iconic Manhattan skyline, “is unreal.”
Meanwhile, progress at F1’s other new US venue – the purpose-built Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas – also appears on track for its November debut.
“We are on time,” circuit president Steve Sexton told the Quebec newspaper La Presse, amid reports work is now taking place at night in order to meet the deadlines. “We are currently installing the asphalt and the buildings are already erected,” he revealed.
“Our intention is to make a good first impression,” added Sexton, “as you only get one chance to do so.”
Source:GMM
