V8 Supercars dump Phillip Island

The following statement was issued by Phillip Island Motor Sports Pty Ltd:

"Phillip Island Motor Sports Pty Ltd was informed by AVESCO yesterday that the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit will not be included on the 2004 V8 Supercar and Konica Series calendars. The circumstances leading to the decision are as follows.

"Last week the management of the Phillip Island circuit were informed by AVESCO that TEGA would only attend 13 rounds and [that], due to the inclusion of China on the calendar, one Australian round had to be excluded. Yesterday the circuit was informed that the AVESCO board had excluded Phillip Island primarily based on safety concerns. The Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit complies with all of the Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (CAMS) safety requirements. There are no improvements requested by the National Safety Committee of the controlling body, which have not been addressed.

"As a cornerstone of Phillip Island Motor Sports Risk Management Policy, we have for a long time maintained a pro-active approach to safety issues. This policy is over and above the track licence standard and has resulted in the implementation of significant improvements to keep pace with the changing dynamics of racing vehicles.

"Phillip Island Motor Sports recently sought assistance from CAMS to undertake a detailed risk audit of the motor racing facility with the clear view of addressing any future safety concerns. This comprehensive assessment is well under way and an invitation was conveyed last week to AVESCO to participate in the process.

"On behalf of the many thousands of fans, competitors and officials who regard 'The Island' as their favourite track, the directors, management and staff of the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit express their total dismay and disappointment at AVESCO's decision."

For International motorcycle events, Phillip Island is licensed separately by the Federation International Motocyclisme (FIM).