European races will start one hour later than previous years, according to Ziggo Sports commentator Olav Mol. While the formation lap used to get underway at 1 PM local time, it is now reported that Liberty Media has pushed start times so the Grands Prix will begin at 2 PM.
It is believed that the later start time will attract a larger viewing audience. Liberty Media’s ideas were presented to broadcasters this week, which included such matters as the new starting time. It is also rumoured that Liberty is keen on races starting 10 minutes past the hour.
Bahrain is also set to become a full night race rather than start at twilight.