Russian Grand Prix organisers have denied reports that Formula One’s inaugural race is in danger, while Azerbaijani officials have rejected suggestions that Baku could step in to replace Sochi on the 2014 calendar.

Germany’s Die Welt newspaper said Azerbaijan was prepared to replace the Russian GP, should the escalating Crimean crisis force the cancellation of the race which is scheduled to be held on October 12 in Sochi’s winter Olympic Park.

Earlier this month, the Azerbaijani government confirmed that a deal had been reached with Formula One chief executive Bernie Ecclestone for a race to be held on the streets of Baku from 2015. However, a spokesman for Azerbaijan’s Sports Minister Azad Rahimov denied claims that Baku’s F1 ambitions could be moved forward a year. “A grand prix will take place in Azerbaijan in 2015,” the spokesman told Russia’s Championat.com sports website. “Can it be in 2014? No, only in 2015.”

Commenting on the speculation, Russian Grand Prix promoter Sergey Vorobyev said in a statement: “The 2014 Formula One Russian Grand Prix will go ahead as planned. Preparations are very much on schedule and the venue will be ready this October to welcome all F1 teams and fans to the Sochi circuit, that runs in between the Olympic stadiums, against a unique mountain backdrop.

“The construction and operational readiness are on schedule. On May 20 we will announce details of the ticketing program, informing fans where, when and how to purchase tickets. We work in close cooperation with Formula One Management (FOM), Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) and international consultants. Regular inspections are done by the experts. Our intention as a promoter has always been to host the world’s best, elite motorsport event, which will be remembered for its inspirational quality, by both the teams and spectators.”

source: sportbusiness