Korean Grand Prix given go-ahead

The Korean Grand Prix has today been given the green light to take place as planned on October 24.

Following months of uncertainty due to delays in the construction of the circuit in Yeongam, the FIA have confirmed the race will now go ahead in 12 days' time.

An FIA spokeswoman said: "Following a visit on 11 October by FIA safety delegate Charlie Whiting, the Yeongam circuit has passed its inspection with regards to the track and safety requirements for the upcoming Korean Grand Prix on October 24."

Under the FIA's own regulations a new venue should be fit to hold an event 90 days before it is scheduled.

But on this occasion that rule was broken as organisers, the Korea Auto Valley Operation (KAVO), were given every opportunity to ensure their facility is fit for purpose.

The 5.615km Korea International Circuit, situated 370km south of Seoul, only had the top layer of asphalt applied at the weekend.

But after a two-day inspection from Whiting the track will now receive the mandatory safety licence required to hold the grand prix, the 17th of the 19 rounds on this season's calendar.

Yung Cho-chung, KAVO and Korea Automobile Racing Association (KARA) chairman, said: "We are delighted all works are now finished to the complete satisfaction of the FIA.

"We now join the whole of Korea in welcoming the Formula One fraternity to the Korea International Circuit for the first time.

"The KIC has been constructed to the highest standards and will become the epicentre of motorsport in the country.

"We believe the 2010 Korean Grand Prix will be the catalyst to ignite enormous interest in the sport across the nation.

"The FIA has played a crucial role from the very beginning, and provided enormous support in terms of expertise, advice and knowledge.

"KAVO has benefited greatly from the FIA's tremendous experience, and we are grateful for their guidance."