Le Mans 2016 unlikely for Hulkenberg

Bernie Ecclestone has somehow been allowed by the FIA to re-jig the Formula 1 race calendar for 2016 so that the inaugural grand prix in Azerbaijan next year will clash with Le Mans.

It means Nico Hulkenberg, who admitted last week that he was anxiously waiting for the amended calendar to be revealed, will not be able to defend his title with Porsche.

The Force India driver said last week: "The first thing is to wait for confirmation of the calendar, as it is important that Le Mans doesn't interfere with Formula 1, otherwise there is no chance."