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Australian GP Here to Stay Till 2015

Just months ago, the organisers of the Australian GP were faced with the ultimatum - have a night race, or risk getting kicked out of the F1 calendar way before their current contract which runs till 2010 is up.

However, things took a surprising turn when it was announced that the Australian GP has extended their F1 deal till at least 2015.

Besides the pressure of having a time slot (night race was proposed but rejected by the organisers) that would suit European viewers better, the Australian GP is also facing losses from the lack of funds and interest.

While no contract has been signed just as yet, an unidentified government source has said that verbal agreement has been reached and it would be a mere matter of days before the announcement would be made. The new contract would include having the race held at a later timing of local time 5pm, and there is absolutely no commitment from the Australian organisers to have a night race.

"We have ruled out a night grand prix and that is not negotiable," Tourism and Major Events Minister Tim Holding said.

"This is a good event for the state. It's one we want to keep, and we'll be working hard to ensure that it does remain here in Melbourne in the years ahead."

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Copyright (C) 2007 Alain Georgette / Copyright (C) 2006 Frantisek Hliva. All rights reserved.

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