Russian Grand Prix: Sochi Changes President Again
Amid the Russian-Ukrainian crisis over the Crimea region, changes are also taking place in Sochi as Sergey Vorobyev takes over the leadership of the circuit under construction, replacing Oleg Zabara.
This is not the first time that a reorganization has taken place in the host city of the last Winter Olympics, as a first shake-up occurred in May 2012 when preparations for the Olympics seemed to jeopardize the future of the event.
In the final stretch and at a time when Russia wants to reaffirm its power on the international stage, it is out of the question for the circuit’s infrastructure not to be completed on time.
Nonetheless, the local authorities did not want to criticize Oleg Zabara, whose work has been recognized and who has been reassigned to other projects. It is mainly a promotion for Sergey Vorobyev since he has been involved in the project for many years, first as a commercial director, then as deputy president of Omega, the structure responsible for organizing the event.
Richard Cregan, the former president of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, continues to act as a luxury consultant for the hosting of the first event on Russian soil. He stated: « Oleg has done a very good job in building a team of professionals and a good reputation for the project. It is important to note that Sergey Vorobyev has been involved in the organization of the Russian Grand Prix for several years. He has cooperated with the FOM, is very involved in the details of the work processes, and is very well connected with key figures in the automotive and motorsport industries. The team and the administration support him. The succession plan is well prepared, and there is no doubt that he will succeed. »
Moreover, it has been confirmed that the first edition of the Russian Grand Prix will take place during the day, contrary to previous statements that suggested the race would be held at night. Even though the organizers did not want to acknowledge it, it is highly likely that it would take too much time to install all the necessary facilities to illuminate the entire circuit. They have therefore chosen to focus on completing the necessary work to ensure the event runs smoothly, under the conditions imposed by the FIA.
With the participation of www.Racingbusiness.fr
