Heavy winds turned the second round of the World Formula I series in St Petersburg, Russia, on May 30 into a rout.
Heavy winds turned the second round of the World Formula I series in St Petersburg, Russia, on May 30 into a rout.
The full international fleet from eight countries spent pre-race day in practice despite a worsening weather pattern. Pole positions, based on practice speeds, were eventually set but increasing winds overnight produced dangerous conditions over the course forced the midday start to be postponed. By then thousands of spectators together with a large contingent of Russian media had arrived to watch this free, once-a-year show.
With the audience getting restless, local organisers persuaded drivers to stage a demonstration leaving the crowds to think the programmed race was about to begin. But with surface conditions still rough and extremely dangerous competitors were flagged in after only five laps. No championship points could be awarded and after such a let-down, a disappointed crowd, some travelling long distances, left the arena with a negative impression of the sport.
The championship now continues with the French Grand Prix, the third round of the series at Chalon on June 27, with Guido Cappellini of Italy heading the series with 20 points.
