THE NEVA RING: "NO" -TO "REVOLUTIONARY PROJECTS", "YES" - TO PROFESSIONAL, STEADY PROGRESS!

On the 20-22th of November the representative of FIA - the member of the Circuits and Safety Commission, the President of the Circuits Commission of Automobile Federation of Spain, Mr. J. Nogue - visited St. Petersburg and made acquaintabce with the "Nevskoye Koltso" (The Neva Ring) Circuit.

That visit was an unofficial one and its aim was to give the recommendations to the circuit owners and management - what information is to be given to FIA to apply for International license, and what changes and improvements are of primary importance.

Mr. Nogue found The Neva ring "not the worse one" in the world, and the position of the circuit - quite close to the center of second largest (~5 mln population) Russian megapolis, but at the same time - in the centre of the huge park - gives it the strong advantages. In some aspects it could be compared with the circuit in Argentina, where F1 Grand Prix races are being held. The St. Petersburg in general and the Primorsky Victory park (The Shoreside Victory Park, where the circuit is placed) unique landscapes are to bring the additional attractivity for visitors from all over the world.

Of course, the F-1 races are the question not of close future for Russia, and the "projects" that are loudly promoted here time by time are regarded not serious by specialists. In that situation, the steps, which are planned with The Neva Ring staff look much more professional - to achieve different levels of development gradually, continuing the large work for improvement of the circuit and infrastructure. The closest step - is to receive the 5th category certificate for international competitions of A and N group cars (the Camel-2000 Cup, that had a great success this September, was non-official, promotional race) in the next Year. Another year - and the application for "3rd class" would be, and this type of certification would permit to invite the GT prototypes races. What about F-1? If one day these races are to be held on any Russian circuit - at first this circuit have to pass a long way with reasonable, professionally-based steps. Like The Neva Ring is doing now!