Texas And Bahrain Make F1 Schedule

The FIA's World Motor Sport Council has decided to keep the Austin and Bahrain grands prix on the Formula One calendar for 2012.

Both races had been in doubt but the schedule was approved at a meeting in New Delhi, India.

Bahrain's season-opening race in 2011 was cancelled because of anti-government protests in March.

It will host the fourth race of next season on April 22 depending on how the political situation plays out.

Construction of the track in Austin, Texas has been delayed by a contractual row.

F1 promoter Bernie Ecclestone last week demanded proof that the finances were available to support the project.

Circuit of The Americas confirmed on Wednesday that Ecclestone had been paid and that building work would recommence immediately.

"Mr. Ecclestone received his cheque today," said the circuit's founding partner, Red McCombs.

The race will take place on November 18, marking Formula One's return to the United States for the first time since 2007.

2012 Formula One Calendar:

March 18: Australia (Melbourne)

March 25: Malaysia (Sepang)

April 15: China (Shanghai)

April 22: Bahrain (Sakhir)

May 13: Spain (Barcelona)

May 27: Monaco

June 10: Canada (Montreal)

June 24: Europe (Valencia)

July 8: Great Britain (Silverstone)

July 22: Germany (Hockenheim)

July 29: Hungary (Budapest)

September 2: Belgium (Spa-Francorchamps)

September 9: Italy (Monza)

September 23: Singapore

October 7: Japan (Suzuka)

October 14: South Korea (Yeongam)

October 28: India (New Dehli)

November 4: Abu Dhabi

November 18: USA (Austin)

November 25: Brazil (Sao Paulo)