Typhoons delay WTCC shipment from China, cause Japan schedule change
The World Touring Car Championship has issued a revised timetable for this weekend's Motegi round after typhoons between China and Japan delayed the passage of the series' shipment of cars
The typhoons have cause significant disruption to shipping routes and operations between the two countries, including the WTCC's freight that is being transported from Shanghai to Tokyo.
To allow teams to prepare adequately for the weekend's events, including car preparation and scrutineering, a revised timetable has been put in place with the majority of Saturday's sessions moved into a condensed Sunday schedule.
The first practice session will take place on the Saturday as planned, albeit at the later time of 1515 local time (0715 BST).
Second practice, qualifying and the MAC3 time trial will all then be held on the Sunday morning, marking the first time qualifying has been held on a Sunday since Beijing in 2014.
"Unfortunately, the weather is something we cannot control and we hope fans watching on TV and making the trip to Twin Ring Motegi won't experience too much inconvenience," said Francois Ribeiro, head of WTCC promoter Eurosport Events.
"In DHL, our other logistical consultants and operational staff, we have the perfect team of people working to ensure delays are kept to a minimum.
"And while it's going to be a busy Sunday, we have managed similar timetable congestion effectively in the past. We look forward to a great show."
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