Statement form Korea International Circuit

As FIA Approves Circuit

October 12, 2010, Seoul, Korea - The 2010 FORMULA 1 KOREAN GRAND PRIX was given the green light today after the FIA approved the Korea International Circuit (KIC).

FIA Formula One Race Director and Safety Delegate Charlie Whiting carried out a site inspection ahead of the October 22-24 Grand Prix, the country's first, and approved all the facilities. Said Whiting: "It is satisfactory, and I will issue the license through (ASN) KARA."

The FIA approval was welcomed by promoter, the Korea Auto Valley Operation (KAVO). Said KAVO and Korea Automobile Racing Association (KARA) Chairman, and FIA Formula One Commission member, Mr. Yung Cho Chung, who hosted Whiting for the inspection of the 5.615km track and infrastructure facilities: "We are delighted that all works are now finished to the complete satisfaction of the FIA, and we join the whole of Korea in welcoming the Formula 1 fraternity to the Korea International Circuit for the first time. The KIC has been constructed to the highest standards, and will become the epicenter of motorsport in the country. We believe the 2010 FORMULA 1 KOREAN GRAND PRIX will be the catalyst to ignite enormous interest in the sport across the nation."

Chung also thanked the FIA for its support and encouragement in the realization of both the country's first Formula 1 Grand Prix and international-standard race facility: "The FIA has played a crucial role from the very beginning, and provided enormous support in terms of expertise, advice and knowledge. KAVO has benefitted greatly from the FIA's tremendous experience, and we are grateful for their guidance."

The event has the full backing of South Korea's Central Government, as well as the Government of South Jeolla Province, where the circuit is located, and its Governor Mr. Park Jun-yeong.

The Korea International Circuit is designed as a dual structure: the 5.615km Formula 1 track, which will include elements of a street circuit and has a 1.2km straight, and a shorter, permanent circuit of 3.045km.

The track was designed by the world-renowned Hermann Tilke, and incorporates local elements such as the roof of the main grandstand which resembles the eaves of traditional Korean 'hanok' houses. A total of 130,000 spectators will be accommodated at the circuit, with 16,000 seats in the main grandstand.

-source: koreangp.kr