F1: Russian GP bosses learn from debut

Russian Grand Prix organizers say they have learned from their mistakes in hosting the country's first Formula 1 race last year and promise a better experience for fans in 2015.

Promoter Sergey Vorobyev told AUTOSPORT a report was compiled on the event, using views from fans, Formula One Management, media and race consultants, on how to improve it.

"We have studied the first race well and hope people who go to this year's event will see the good progress," he said. "There are several areas where we need to improve, such as the catering in public areas, better diversification of types of food and more attention need to be paid to the kids.

"There is something to improve in public transportation. It was not too bad but there are still things to be done."

More ticket options are available this year with prices remaining the same, according to Vorobyev.

"We will have the same number of seats – 55,000 – but we have diversified the seating programme and introduced a two-day ticket, last year there was only a four-day ticket," he said. "There will also be general admission tickets with the ticket prices remaining the same."

Vorobyev also said plans are in place to hold more non-F1 events for racegoers.

"We are working with the clubs to make life in Sochi much more fun than it typically is," he added. "We will create a program of parties and nightlife activities which will be sent to ticketholders.

"We will continue to host concerts in F1 villages after the race and there will be things like ice hockey matches at the Olympic venue. This year will be much more fun."

Vorobyev added that the race fee is covered by the government, with the promoter aiming to cover its operating costs through ticket sales with event-related revenues.

Originally on Autosport.com