19 race provisional 2005 calendar released

The FIA released the provisional 2005 Formula One calendar on October 13th and the list of venues includes the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, on July 3rd, subject to contract. San Marino (Imola) and France (Magny Cours) were given the same status on the 19 race schedule.

The 18 races of this season are on the calendar and Turkey is listed to make its debut on August 21st of next season to make a total of 19. However, the final confirmation of the calendar is not expected until later this year and could be reduced to 16 or 17 events.

The teams are not keen on the idea of 19 races and one or two of the provisional venues may be dropped. The British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC) is still in negotiations with Bernie Ecclestone to secure Silverstone's future.

Changes include France, if it does take place, being moved away from its usual summer spot to the first European race of the year on April 17th. Brazil is the last race this year but China will close the 2005 season. Canada and the USA retain their back-to-back slots in June.

The FIA noted that the dates for the Grands Prix of Europe, USA and China will be confirmed no later than the meeting of the World Motor Sport Council on December 10, 2004.

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