Oct.7 (GMM) Work began on Thursday to lay the final top layer of asphalt at Korea's new Yeongam circuit.

The race organisers only have three days to complete the job before the FIA's Charlie Whiting begins a two-day inspection on Monday.

"Work on the final surface layer will probably be done by Friday," confirmed spokesman Kim Jae-ho.

But the looming inspection deadline means the fate of the event, scheduled for October 24, could rest on as little as the local weather forecast.

According to Germany's Auto Motor und Sport, F1's governing FIA and commercial body FOM have covered their tracks by requiring the organisers to sign a letter.

The letter guarantees that the asphalt will be properly cured and ready to accommodate F1 cars later this month.

Grand Prix Drivers' Association chairman Rubens Barrichello said on Thursday: "We are not worried, because we know that the FIA only approves a circuit if all the safety requirements are met.

"I am looking forward to the inspection next week and hearing if it's a green or red light," added the Brazilian.

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