Bernie Ecclestone admits the 2013 season will likely see just 19 races, one less than the record breaking calendar this year.
The FIA recently confirmed it had rescheduled the German Grand Prix in order to accommodate an “additional European event,” to bring the calendar to 20 races following the postponement of the New Jersey GP to 2014.
Turkey was believed to be the front-runner for the open slot, but it now seems unlikely given the governments unwillingness to provide financial backing – though Ecclestone is still pushing for its return.
“Right now I think we will have only 19 grands prix next year,” he told Kleine Zeitung. “That wouldn’t be a big problem for Formula 1.
“Right now I’m thinking more about Turkey so we return to Istanbul,” he added.
Meanwhile Red Bull have made it clear that they would be willing to host a race at the Red Bull Ring in Austria, though Ecclestone seems in the dark on the matter.
“I have not talked about this with anyone,” he said of the offer.
