The 2007 calendar
That Formula One's 2007 calendar is undergoing a major reshuffle became clear, rather ironically in view of the circuit's expected permanent or temporary disappearance as host venue for the German Grand Prix, in Hockenheim over the weekend.
First salvo was fired by the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, which on Friday announced that it bagged 18 March for its Melbourne race. For a while rumours had been floating about that the new season would start two weeks later than expected, enabling teams to test a fortnight longer before heading for the first race of the incoming season.
This seems to have been confirmed by the AGPC's release, which stressed that the event had been returned to its traditional season opener slot after being pushed down the list by four weeks and two Grands Prix due to clashes with this year's Commonwealth Games hosted by the city.