Formula 1 execs "proposed new security measures following a series of dangerous incidents at this year's Brazilian Grand Prix," according to Andrew Benson of the BBC. The "most serious case" came when Mercedes personnel were robbed at gunpoint on a road leaving the Interlagos track in São Paulo. FIA "strongly urged" the implementation of a new security system for next year's race. It involves "an independent security expert and better police communication." The proposal, drafted at a meeting of the FIA World Council, "makes no mention of what might happen" if the Brazil organizers "fail to act." The race is not listed as provisional on the '18 calendar (BBC, 12/6).
SCHEDULE RELEASE: In London, Matt Maltby reported FIA confirmed the 21-race F1 calendar for '18 -- with the schedule featuring the sport's first tripleheader, as France and Germany return while Malaysia drops out. The only change from the provisional calendar is the date swap between China and Bahrain, "with the Sakhir race now heading up the first back-to-back of the season." As "usual," the season begins with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 25. Three grands prix "in a row have also been introduced next year as expected." The '18 F1 schedule is as follows:
-
March 25: Melbourne, Australia
- April 8: Sakhir, Bahrain
- April 15: Shanghai, China
- April 29: Baku, Azerbaijan
- May 13: Barcelona, Spain
- May 27: Monaco
- June 10: Montreal, Canada
- June 24: Le Castellet, France
- July 1: Spielberg, Austria
- July 8: Silverstone, England
- July 22: Hockenheim, Germany
- July 29: Budapest, Hungary
- Aug 26: Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium
- Sept 2: Monza, Italy
- Sept 16: Singapore
- Sept 30: Sochi, Russia
- Oct 7: Suzuka, Japan
- Oct 21: Austin, United States*
- Oct 28: Mexico City, Mexico
- Nov 11: São Paulo, Brazil
- Nov 25: Abu Dhabi, UAE
* (subject to confirmation) (
DAILY MAIL, 12/7).
