F1 | Russia replacement must not be “just to go to a race,” says Steiner
F1 should only add a 23rd race if it can get the “right contribution” to assure there is no loss, given the higher costs of transport the world is facing after the Russian invasion in Ukraine.
Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine back in February Formula 1 cancelled the Russian Grand Prix, that was set to take place on September 25, and terminated its contract.
Words around the paddock were that Qatar would have hosted the replacement, but according to Autosport.com F1 is also exploring other options. Among those there is the possibility – that has allegedly been discussed with the promoters – of turning the Singapore – Japan double header into a triple header by adding a second race in Marina Bay.
The race would come one week after the Italian GP in Monza and a bit earlier than the traditional night race we are used to seeing in Singapore, as the idea is to have lights turn green at dusk.
For Haas’ Team Principal Guenther Steiner shortening the calendar to 22 races or replacing Sochi is all a matter of budget.
"I think it depends on how much the new race brings to bottom line of the budget,” he commented in a session with media including MotorLat.
"That is in the hands of F1 and to make sure we are not going to a race just to go to a race, especially with the higher costs of transport and things like this.”
"So we need to make sure, or F1 will make sure, that we go to a place and the fee is adequate so we are not losing money if we go to one more place.”
"Twenty-two races is a good amount of races but if you can get 23 with the right contribution, it is fine with us."
Higher costs, however, are not the only issue for F1’s freight, as only two weeks ago teams risked not getting it shipped to Melbourne on time. Fortunately, DHL managed to arrange a flight to make up for the delay the cargo ship transporting the freight was experiencing.
"I think F1 takes it seriously, but it's one of those scenarios you cannot really control," said Steiner.
"We all know that it's difficult now, especially with the invasion of Ukraine. I think there's a lot of cargo planes out of service now because of the sanctions to Russian companies, because they were running or flying a lot of the cargo planes. So it's not getting any easier.”
"But it's one of those things that are just out of your control. As long as you don't get your own planes, you're always counting on other people to help you out.”
