Ecclestone says the Abu Dhabi contract could be extended

Bernie Ecclestone's Formula One management company has signed a seven-year deal for a race in the capital of the United Arab Emirates.

The 5.6km circuit on Yas Island will include street and marina sections.

"We are very committed to Abu Dhabi. We have a seven-year contract, but I'm sure the race will go on forever," said Ecclestone.

He added that the race would not be a threat to nearby Bahrain, which has hosted a race since 2004 and recently agreed a long-term deal.

"I am sure that Bahrain and Abu Dhabi will work closely together to make sure Formula One is very successful in this part of the world, which is very important," said Ecclestone

"At the moment we have got five countries waiting to see if we can put a race there.

"We are aiming for 20 races. I think we are now well served in this part of the world."

Ecclestone also confirmed that he wants to add night races to the championship calendar with Singapore among the leading candidates.