Night running of Grand Prix race denied

Organisers of Abu Dhabi's inaugural Formula One Grand Prix race have again denied that the race in November could be held at night. Reports from the Monaco Grand Prix said a night race remained an option for Abu Dhabi, despite thousands of tickets having already been sold for a 3pm start. Philippe Gurdjian, special adviser to the Abu Dhabi project, was quoted by Associated Press in Monaco as saying that the Yas Marina Circuit would be ready for a night race on Nov 1.

However, a spokesman for Abu Dhabi Motorsport Management (ADMM), which will manage the circuit, said there were no plans to start the race at any time other than 3pm, in line with most other race start times. And while it is possible that they may be asked to change the time by the race's authorities, it was considered highly unlikely. At a launch event last October, Mr Gurdjian also denied suggestions that this years's race was to be held at night.

ADMM confirmed the circuit will, however, have the capacity to host events at night, which could see it follow the lead of Singapore, where the first night-time F1 race was held last September. Construction of the circuit, on which around 40,000 workers are employed, was going to plan, he said. "We are very busy, it's a huge project." [e-mail]

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