Categories: 2016 SeasonF1 News, Reports and Race Results

No December final for 2016 calendar

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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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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.