Sochi circuit passes FIA track inspection

The FIA's F1 race director Charlie Whiting has confirmed that Russia's new Sochi Autodrom is ready to host its first Grand Prix later this year.

The announcement follows a detailed evaluation of the circuit and the venue itself, built on the site of the 2014 Winter Olympic Games, by an FIA delegation led by Whiting.

"The circuit is in extremely good condition and will be issued with a licence," he said.

"Everything has been done according to the plans - the kerbs are very good, the verges, the guardrails, the walls - everything is in an extremely good condition. Everything has been done to the highest standards and I'm extremely pleased.

"I can say without hesitation that the circuit is ready 60 days in advance, which is very rare really."

Whiting said that it is now unlikely he will need to make a final inspection closer to the date of the inaugural 2014 Formula 1 Russian Grand Prix, which will take place on October 10-12.

"I don't know at the moment, but it should not be necessary," he explained. "What I've seen today gives me complete comfort that the circuit will be entirely ready when I come back for the Grand Prix."

Race promoter Sergey Vorobyev added: "We were ready for Mr Whiting's visit and we want to congratulate our builders who have made this positive verdict happen. We were confident that FIA would appreciate the efforts made by our team to implement the technical details that have been so highly reviewed by Mr Whiting today.

"Now that Sochi Autodrom has received a licence, everything else is up to the organisers of the events and as such we are working intensely on ensuring that all aspects of the event are fully prepared. It is our aim to make this a truly unforgettable event with the comfort and enjoyment of our guests at the forefront of all our efforts."