Todt sorry over 2016 dates clash

FIA president Jean Todt said he is sorry because of the clash of dates between 24 Hours of Le Mans and inaugural Formula 1 race in Azerbaijan next year.

He sid that clash of the dates couldn’t be avoided and added that is impossible to make perfect racing schedule which could fit every competition. But, opinions are different and World Endurance Championship chief Gerard Neveu earlier said that this is ‘clear attack’ on his series.

“Organizing the calendar is not easy job, Next year we will have 21 Formula 1 races, 10 Formula E races, 10 WEC and 14 WRC races. It is impossible to make calendar without any conflict. I am sorry but I believe that everybody will be happy at the end. I am sorry for couple of drivers which will be affected, but we can’t do better,” said Todt.

One of those drivers which will be affected is Nico Hulkenberg who won’t be able to defend Le Mans title, won this year with Porsche teammates Earl Bamber and Nick Tandy as 24 hours race will go on June 18/19, while first-ever race in Baku is scheduled for 19th of June.

So, Hulkenberg will drive for Force India team in Azerbaijan next year and probably he will be replaced with Juan Pablo Montoya, former Formula 1 driver. Colombian was Porsche team guest during few WEC races in 2015 and many see him as Hulkenberg’s successor.