The Korean Grand Prix is back on the Formula 1 calendar after the FIA published a surprise 21-race program during the week.
This is a bit of an odd one as there is, in theory, a 20-race cap for the F1 calendar. Speculation suggests the weeds around the Yeongam circuit will remain untouched and the race won’t actually go ahead.
It would seem the inclusion of the Korean Grand Prix has more to do with engine allowances in 2015 than it does actual racing. Under the current regulations each driver will have access to just four power units next season. However, there is a clause allowing an increase to five power units if the calendar exceeds 20 races.
In relation to engine allowances the sporting regs state: “This number will be increased to five if the number of Events in the Championship, as originally scheduled, exceeds 20.”
“Orignally scheduled” being the key words there. For example, if the season is underway and Korea remains on the calendar the teams and drivers will have five power units at their disposal for the year. If the Korean race is later cancelled then the extra engine allowance will still stand.
There could be some mileage left in this story yet.
You can see the full calendar after the break.
| Round | Date | Grand Prix |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 15 March | AUSTRALIA (Melbourne) |
| 2 | 29 March | MALAYSIA (Sepang) |
| 3 | 12 April | CHINA (Shanghai) |
| 4 | 19 April | BAHRAIN (Sakhir) |
| 5 | 3 May | KOREA (Provisional)* |
| 6 | 10 May | SPAIN (Barcelona) |
| 7 | 24 May | MONACO (Monaco) |
| 8 | 7 June | CANADA (Montreal) |
| 9 | 21 June | AUSTRIA (Red Bull Ring) |
| 10 | 5 July | BRITAIN (Silverstone) |
| 11 | 20 July | GERMANY (TBC) |
| 12 | 26 July | HUNGARY (Budapest) |
| 13 | 23 August | BELGIUM (Spa) |
| 14 | 6 September | ITALY (Monza) |
| 15 | 20 September | SINGAPORE (Marina Bay) |
| 16 | 27 September | JAPAN (Suzuka) |
| 17 | 11 October | RUSSIA (Sochi) |
| 18 | 25 October | USA (Austin) |
| 19 | 1 November | MEXICO (Mexico City) |
| 20 | 15 November | BRAZIL (Interlagos) |
| 21 | 29 November | ABU DHABI (Yas Marina) |
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