Korean F1 grand prix will be run, drivers and organisers say in Japan

The Formula One drivers and teams have said they are sure the inaugural Korean grand prix will go ahead and travel preparations are already advanced for the race on 24 October. Charlie Whiting, the race director of the FIA, the sport's governing body, will visit the circuit in Yeongam on Monday, the day after the Japanese grand prix and less than two weeks before the Korean race. "We are in the late stages, but we'll get it done before the event," Peter Baek of the race organisers, Korea Auto Valley Operation, said. "Everything is on schedule and everything will be done." Cancellation would have a major impact on the world title outcome, with five drivers currently separated by 25 points and a maximum 100 to be won – assuming the race in South Korea takes place as scheduled. Fernando Alonso said he was going to Korea and expected the race to take place as scheduled, a view shared by Jenson Button. The teams will be sending cars and equipment straight to the Yeongam facility, 400 miles south of the capital, Seoul, immediately after Sunday's race here at Suzuka and what few hotels there are in the area are all fully booked. Only the Renault driver Robert Kubica voiced any concern, saying: "I think it's a bit of an abnormal situation to go to the track where there were no races and to go to a track that may not be raceable, but it's the same for everybody. I just hope there are no big problems there, although the tarmac being laid so late might create some problems. But we will see." When asked if he expected the race to take place, he said: "I don't know. I think it will not happen but it might happen. I don't know. To be honest it's difficult for me to judge. I'm not a specialist."