Motor racing-Bahrain reverts to third race on 2007 calendar

LONDON, Aug 1 (Reuters) Bahrain will revert to its familiar third place on the Formula One calendar in 2007 after hosting this year's season opener.

Bahrain International Circuit said in a statement today that Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone had given them a provisional date of April 15, the weekend after Malaysia on April 8.

The Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, third on the calendar this year to avoid a clash with the Commonwealth Games, will return to its season-opening position on March 18.

Ecclestone has yet to release the draft calendar, which is expected to remain at 18 races with Belgium returning and Germany losing one of its two races.

REUTERS SBA KN2316