No December final for 2016 calendar

As he ponders adjustments to next year's Formula 1 calendar, Bernie Ecclestone has reassured the troops over fears of the 2016 season extending into December.

Abu Dhabi is set to remain F1's season-ending event, but in its latest iteration concocted by Mister E. the schedule has reduced the team's holiday period between Hungary and Spa, and awarded Malaysia a tentative new slot closer to Singapore.

"I think we can escape going into December, otherwise it's getting a bit too near Christmas," said the 84-year-old supremo. "I'm going to move Malaysia a little bit though. I don't know where, I'm having a look."

The provisional 2016 draft appears more condensed, with 21 races and a relatively late opener in Australia on April 3. Azerbaijan is due to make its debut next year while Germany is set for a welcome return after a year's absence.

The reduced gap between Hungary (August 7) and Spa (August 28) will likely prove contentious with the teams as most wish to maintain the current four-week break and salutary holiday period.

Williams deputy team principal Claire Williams admits feeling wary over the prospect and said the matter will be discussed by the teams at F1's next Strategy Group meeting.

"Not having that shutdown is a concern," Williams said.

" It’s so important for everybody that works within the team and Formula 1 that they have that break … so we’ll be lobbying to have it reinstated. I still think Bernie is in conversations with various promoters around some of those races on the calendar which may enable a little bit of flexibility."

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