F1 boss touts night-time race

Formula One: Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone is considering the possibility of holding one of the Asian Grands Prix at night…

Formula One:Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone is considering the possibility of holding one of the Asian Grands Prix at night.

The sport's commercial rights holder believes such an event would guarantee a larger television audience because it would be broadcast during lunchtime in Europe.

"It would be ideal for Asia, since it would be the right time difference to be broadcast in Europe," Ecclestone said on www.bbc.co.uk.

"It would also be very spectacular, it all depends, of course, on the circuit."

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Ecclestone also repeated his intention to extend the F1 calendar from 17 to 20 races, claiming Mexico, India and Russia would be considered as hosts, with South Korea another candidate.

This proposal has put him at odds with team bosses, who have baulked at the additional expense involved.

But Ecclestone countered: "The more we hold races in good countries, the easier it will be for them to find sponsors."

He also warned organisers of the French Grand Prix he would have no qualms dropping the Magny-Cours event from next year's schedule.

The race is in doubt because of poor access to the track, low attendances and a lack of accommodation.

Ecclestone said: "Formula One is very international, it's a world championship, not a championship linked to certain countries. When the standards are not respected, we have to go elsewhere."