Australia ready to adjust Grand Prix schedule

The start time of the 2011 Australian Grand Prix will change after the FIA’s lighting tests conducted last week during the race were deemed too dark.

The drivers had vehemently complained in Melbourne, considering that the start time made the race end in difficult lighting conditions. The FIA conducted light tests during the event and its results showed that the lighting was below the minimum required for night races. The FIA recommended that the start time of the race could be moved by a maximum of one hour for the 2011 edition.

Michael Schumacher welcomed the FIA’s implementation of measures aimed at improving driver safety. At the end of the race, it was certainly too dark, and I understand that the FIA is taking measures for next year.

Robert Kubica was happy that the FIA admitted it was too dark and even suggested that the race take place in the morning so it could be broadcast in Europe on Saturday evening. Last year, when we had this schedule change, we knew what the reason was. But as I said, let’s have the race early in the morning so that it is broadcast on Saturday evening in Europe. With a late start, there is a risk there could be, as today, heavy clouds, heavy rain, and a lot of spray. I think after Australia we complained twice. The FIA took some measures, and it’s clear that it’s too dark for them in terms of safety. It’s a serious problem because this year it was too dark, and last year the sun was very low, which is also dangerous.

The schedule of the race must be decided by the organizers of the Grand Prix in conjunction with the Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone.