The 2016 Formula 1 World Championship season will start date confirmed as April 3rd almost a month later than recent tradition that saw the formula 1 calendar kick off with the Australian Grand Prix in March since since 1988.
THis is part of a move by the FOM (The Formula One Group that is responsable for the promotion of F1) to condense the 2016 schedule by reducing the length of the full season, though the provisional calendar for the 2016 season won’t be confirmed for some time, the decision to confirm Australia’s date later than expected comes despite Bernie Ecclestone’s intention to increase the number of races next year including Azerbaijan, which seems almost certain to be included, as well as New Jersey and Korea who are “contacted” but still uncertian due to preperation scheduals.
A consequence of Australia’s later date will mean it comes after daylight saving time has occurred and will therefore allow for an earlier race start time says CEO Andrew Westacott.
“The new date will see an earlier start time, and fans can expect the same great on-track action and off-track entertainment across the four days,”
“It’s fantastic that Melbourne will again play host to the opening round of the FIA Formula One World Championship. Over the past 20 years Melbourne has become synonymous with the start of a new Formula One season, and we look forward to again welcoming all the teams and drivers to our great city in 2016.”
The last time we saw the Formula 1 calendar start late in the year there were only 16 race while next year we face a potential 24, almost the same number as the years between late starts. We can expect more shifting dates as the 2016 Calendar is slowly ironed out over the course of the year and I wouldnt be suprised if we see racing ever fortnight over a solid 6 months in the coming year.
What are your thoughts on the new start date? Do you welcome a tighter F1 caledar or do you prefer to savour the experience over the year? let us know in the comments.
Roger Baillie (@Rojn8r)