Russian GP misses 2014 application deadline

Although construction work at the Sochi International Circuit is still in progress, according to private correspondence between the FIA and the Russian Automobile Federation, track authorities had until July 31 to submit a formal application to host a Grand Prix in 2014. In order for the race to now go ahead, they must prove that exceptional circumstances played a part in missing the deadline.

An email from the FIA to the body read: "We kindly ask you to submit your requests for all events as soon as possible, and no later than 31 July 2013, except in the case of force majeure.”

The problems are believed to have arisen due to a dispute between the RAF and track authorities regarding payment of marshals and security personnel, with the federation wanting promoters to increase their contribution. Despite the testing circumstances, the governing body is remaining confident that the race will be on the calendar in 2014.

Sergei Ivanov, executive director of RAF, said: "The RAF will include the Russian Grand Prix in the FIA calender in the 'force majuere' format that is provided for by the FIA as soon as the promoter fulfills its obligations.”

Last month, circuit promoters announced that the Russian Grand Prix had been pencilled in to take place on 19 October 2014.