Australian GP boss plays down race fears

An exemption on Australian's tobacco advertising ban runs out for Formula One in October this year, meaning that the 2007 race in Melbourne will have to run unbranded.

And although this has prompted talk of compensation needing to be paid to Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone, Walker insists that there is no concern for his organization about the situation.

"Our contract has been adjusted to cope with the exemption in 2006, as I am sure all other contracts are," he told autosport.com.

When asked whether he had any doubts about the future of the race, he said: "None. I have a contract until 2010 and the race will not be leaving here. And I know that for sure."

Ecclestone was quoted in the Australian media on Wednesday as saying he was 'worried' about the tobacco situation.

He said: "We've always relied on the fact that in Australia we can run with tobacco branding, but I understand now that there may be some problems with that.

"If there's something in the contract that refers to tobacco advertising, obviously it's something to be worried about. We've got a contract with Australia and we'll have a look and see exactly what's what."

But Walker claims that the situation is completely clear and that there is no reason to doubt the future of the event.

"Bernie knows exactly what is in the contract," added Walker. "Mr. Ecclestone has got the sharpest mind in the world. He knows how every contract reads."