Provisional date set for Clipsal 500

The 2010 Clipsal 500 V8 Supercar event is likely to be held on Adelaide's street circuit from March 11-14, it was announced today.

"We have received word from V8 Supercars Australia that they have accepted that this date is the one preferred by the South Australian Motor Sport Board (SAMSB) to align the event with other activities in South Australia in the first quarter of the year," race chief Jason Allen confirmed.

"It is important from the State's point of view that we maximise the economic and promotional benefits of the Clipsal 500 Adelaide and March is the best time for that. It is also advantageous in terms of the likelihood of more favourable weather conditions for fans and drivers alike."

Allen stressed however that the date was still subject to ratification by the FIA - the world motor sport authority - and if signed off it would mean the Clipsal 500 would be held ahead of the Melbourne Grand Prix that was listed for March 25-28 and which is again subject to final FIA approval.

"It's certainly our preference, and while there still remains speculation over where the 2010 V8 Supercar Championship Series may commence, the motor sport authorities have listened to the views expressed by the SA Government and the South Australian Motor Sport Board in regard to our preferred timing for the Clipsal 500 Adelaide," Allen concluded.