Whitmarsh: We're right on the limit

McLaren team principal Martin Whitmarsh believes Formula One is "on the limit" when it comes to the 20 races on next season's calendar.

With this year beginning to draw to a close, with just four weeks and two races remaining in Abu Dhabi and Brazil, sights are already being trained on 2012. In particular, concerns have already been expressed with regard to the record-breaking number of races next season, with 20 putting a strain on all involved within a team.

"Twenty races and a lot of fly-aways is pretty hard on the team, and we're at the tipping point," said Whitmarsh, who also serves as chairman of the Formula One Teams' Association. "We're getting close to the point where you do need to alternate crews, like in NASCAR."

He added: "Obviously, the world championship is important, but every grand prix as a stand-alone event is very special.

"Personally, we shouldn't have more than 20. I know there is always the chase of money, but 20 is a lot and we're right on the limit of what we should be."

For many of the personnel surrounding a team, a grand prix does not simply involve the weekend itself, as there is preparation and clear-up involved which can often involve a full week away.

Whitmarsh added: "I think we can cope with it (next year). But it is very hard because by the time the team strips down and returns after Brazil then it will be December.

"In January those same guys will be building the car, and then in February testing it, and then they're into a flog around the world.

"It's an incredibly difficult, challenging job for the mechanics, technicians and engineers.

"Fortunately we've a great team, they've enjoyed the challenge, and next year, with 20 races, it's again a decent challenge, but I know we can do it."