Abu Dhabi denies track building delay
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix officials have denied suggestions that the circuit will not be ready in time for this year's inaugural race
Rumours emerged during the Australian Grand Prix weekend that the circuit, which will host the season finale in November, could be replaced as there were delays with the construction of the circuit.
There was also speculation about a possible management reshuffle, with suggestions that Abu Dhabi circuit chief Philippe Gurdjian could be focusing on helping with the construction of a circuit to host an F1 grand prix in Korea.
Abu Dhabi, however, has moved to quash the reports that the circuit construction has been delayed, also denying Gurdjian was leaving.
"As tickets for the inaugural Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix went on sale in Abu Dhabi this morning, Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management (ADMM) confirmed that progress on the construction of Yas Marina Circuit, the host venue for the final race of the 2009 F1 season finale, is on track and there are no concerns regarding delivery deadlines," the circuit said in a statement on Monday.
"ADMM, the organization responsible for the management of the state-of-the-art Abu Dhabi based track benefits from the leadership of two experienced and talented individuals, Richard Cregan and Philippe Gurdjian.
"Gurdjian's main focus is on the development and delivery of the track whilst Cregan, formerly General Manager of Toyota's F1 Team, focuses on the growth of the team, the success of the grand prix, and ensuring that Yas Marina Circuit is a fully functioning, year round business."
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