The International Automobile Federation, commonly addressed as FIA, has confirmed the schedule for the 2016 Formula One season. The FIA formally ratified the calendar yesterday.
There has been a confirmed change in the Formula One sporting regulation as the schedule will be consisting of 21 races which will run from March 20 to November 27, compared to the 20 races in 2015. The 2016 season will feature more rounds than any other season in the F1 history.
Next season will see the debut of the European Grand Prix in Baku, Azerbaijan on June 17 to 19 and for the likings of many fans, the German Grand Prix hosted by Hockenheim will be making its return once again after a year of absence. Same like 2015, Australia will be hosting the season opener with Abu Dhabi staging the final paddock for the fifth time.
The US Grand Prix in Texas remains as a subject to agreement as it was thrown in further doubt due to funding issues. The officials at the Circuit of the Americas had admitted to be financially struggling and with the lack of aid by the Texas governor’s office, the slot for the race in Austin is provisional. The 2016 season will still have a race in Texas at Oct 23 but with an asterisk.
There will also be greater tyre choices for the 2016 season as three, rather than two, dry-weather compounds will now be available to teams at each round.
The Virtual Safety Car (VSC) may now be used in practice sessions and races to reduce stoppage times. DRS will now be re-enabled immediately after a VSC period.
The World Motor Sport Council has given FIA president Jean Todt and commericial supremo Bernie Ecclestone the power to make recommendations and decisions on key issues regarding Formula 1’s future, such as power units and cost reduction.
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