As the 17th round of the 2010 season, Korea’s first Formula 1 Grand Prix event got off to a roaring start, despite problems with the weather and organizational issues. The newly completed track in Yeongam, South Jeolla Province, opened, just in time to welcome visitors from around the world for the races, which started on October 24.
Despite being well known internationally for its car exports and brands like Hyundai-Kia, Korea has relatively little experience with automobile racing and motor sports. Despite this, the construction of the circut at Yeongam is seen as a step towards raising Korea’s international sporting profile, and an important development project for Korea’s southern-most regions.
(Photo: Yonhap News)
The track was designed by German architect Herman Tilke, at a cost of some 250 billion won. The 5.62 kilometer circuit is the result of a deal between British sports entrepreneur Bernie Ecclestone and the Korea Auto Valley Operation (KAVO), a joint venture between M-Bridge Holdings and Jeollanam-do regional government.
The track was designed by German architect Herman Tilke, at a cost of some 250 billion won. The 5.62 kilometer circuit is the result of a deal between British sports entrepreneur Bernie Ecclestone and the Korea Auto Valley Operation (KAVO), a joint venture between M-Bridge Holdings and Jeollanam-do regional government.
The newly-laid Korea International Circuit track received praise from drivers, who lauded its demanding nature. There were also a few suggestions for future races, and the track will be altered to accommodate these and improve overall safety and enjoyment.
Despite initial fears that the races would be poorly attended, fans turned out to fill the bleachers and cheer on their favorites, bringing the stands to near capacity.
(Photo: Yonhap News)
Nearly 170,000 spectators attended, with 25,000 showing up for the first day of the three-day event. On the second and third days, attendance jumped significantly, with 80,000 people coming on the final day, despite a deluge of rain that nearly caused some cancellations. Formula 1’s global television audience is estimated to be almost 600 million people worldwide.
Nearly 170,000 spectators attended, with 25,000 showing up for the first day of the three-day event. On the second and third days, attendance jumped significantly, with 80,000 people coming on the final day, despite a deluge of rain that nearly caused some cancellations. Formula 1’s global television audience is estimated to be almost 600 million people worldwide.
Because of the rain, the race started with safety cars, which lead the racers around the circuit until conditions are determined to be safe enough to permit the race to continue. Even with delays, however, spectators were treated to a thrilling race, with Ferrari's Fernando Alonso taking first place, putting him within reach of his third title. Second place went to McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton and third to Ferarri’s Felipe Massa.
(Photo: Yonhap News)
Michael Spavor, a Canadian living in Korea who attended the races, enthused about the experience, saying, "I'm a big fan of Formula 1, and went to races back in Canada. It was really exciting to see all these cars going through the rain, with the spray and the sound. I sat in the main grandstand, and it was exhilarating, with gorgeous views not only of the track but of the sea beyond. It’s a great course."
(Photo: Yonhap News)
Following the F1 events, South Jeolla’s new racing venue will play host to the Korea Formula Three Superprix from November 26-28.
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