The 2013 New York Grand Prix called into question
As the New Jersey is set to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix in 2013, under the name "Grand Prix of New York," Bernie Ecclestone has cast doubt on the feasibility of such an event happening as early as next year.
A second Formula 1 Grand Prix is set to take place in the United States starting in 2013, in New Jersey, following the debut of the Austin circuit this year. However, although the news has been official for several months now, Bernie Ecclestone continues to claim that preparations may extend beyond the 2013 season.
The FOM boss had expressed doubts at the end of May and more recently reiterated them. When asked by BBC News whether the race would take place in 2013, he replied: « No. Clearly, no. »
Bernie Ecclestone also stated that he would be delighted to be proven wrong by the organizers, and in that case, the race would indeed be on the 2013 calendar: « We will see, I need to go back and study things. With what I have seen so far, and with what is happening, I am not as sure as they are. If they can be ready on time and confirm to us that everything will be fine, then it is certain they will be on the calendar. »
The race is expected to take place in June 2013, it could be coupled with the Montreal race and even though Sebastian Vettel recently inaugurated the chosen circuit, everything is not yet ready to host the F1 cars.
Let us remember that this urban layout will present numerous challenges for the organizers. How to divert traffic during the event to avoid disturbing local residents? How and where to place the many stands planned for spectators? What security solutions to use on the track? How to accommodate the 12 F1 teams near the paddock and give them enough space to set up in the streets… So many questions that the organizers of the European Grand Prix in Valencia, Monaco, or Singapore have already faced.
