The new Korean Grand Prix track is nearing completion ahead of its final FIA inspection next week, as exclusive new pictures of the circuit show.
With FIA race director Charlie Whiting due to fly to Korea on Monday for a 48-hour evaluation of the facilities and circuit as a sign-off for the event going ahead, the finishing touches are now being put in place. Photographs of the track show the final layer of asphalt has been laid, and curbs and tire barriers are in place. Grandstands also appear to be ready for the Oct. 24 event.
Formula 1 commercial rights manager Bernie Ecclestone said on Saturday that he was now convinced the race would be going ahead, having expressed reservations about it just two weeks ago.
"I will be there, the world will be watching and we will have a great race – it is on, end of story," Ecclestone told the Daily Express. "They had problems but they have done wonders in the last few weeks. I've been in touch; I've seen photographs and the top layer of the track has been laid. They will pass the inspection."