In turn Tom Walkinshaw of TWR commented on the time frame for the construction of the £66 million circuit at Nagatino Island saying, 'Now that the location has been approved by Mr Ecclestone, we have the architects who are consultants to the FIA and they will work with us to finalise the design of the circuit. When that's finalised, we'll submit it to the FIA for approval and then construction can begin. It's months, not years.'

According to a report in Russian national newspaper, work has begun at Nagatino Island and an introduction on the F1 calendar in 2003 is now feasible. The newspaper allegedly quoted Ecclestone as saying, 'Moscow is ready now for Formula One. I am convinced that the first race there will be held within the next two years. My last visit to Moscow was 10 years ago, now I barely recognise the city - the changes are enormous. This, of course, is good for Russia, and even better for the Formula One organisation. It will be a great show.'

Jordan Grand Prix