OCTOBER 8, 2004

Japanese GP in doubt?

The Japanese Grand Prix is in doubt. Tropical Storm Number 22 continues its progress towards Suzuka with heavy rain and winds in excess of 60mph. It is predicted that the storm will arrive at Suzuka at midday tomorrow and a decision is expected this evening to ensure that the Japanese public are warned in advance if it is considered unsafe for the track to be open on Saturday. The decision needs to be taken early so that temporary structures can be taken down before the storm arrives. If this happens it is planned for qualifying to take place on Sunday morning. Much however depends on the path which the typhoon - now classified as a Super Typhoon - takes in the next few hours.