Russian GP organisers have missed the deadline set by the FIA to apply to host a Formula One race next season, according to the Russian Automobile Federation (RAF).

Although construction work is still underway at the Sochi International Circuit, private email correspondence between the FIA and the RAF stated that the Russian GP organisers had until the 31st of July to submit their application.

The email read: “We kindly ask you to submit your requests for all events as soon as possible, and no later than 31 July 2013, except in the case of force majeure.”

In order for the Russian GP race to now go ahead, they will have to prove that exceptional circumstances are to blame for their missing the deadline.

It seems that a dispute exists between the RAF and Russian GP promoters over who will be liable to pay for certain costs such as the training of the 700-800 track marshals and circuit staff that are required to host the race.

The RAF said in a statement that as soon as the dispute is resolved, they will submit their application under force majeure as has been made provision for by the FIA.

The issue is likely to be resolved and the Russian Grand Pix is likely to go ahead as planned – especially considering the very public signing of the contract by President Vladimir Putin and Bernie Ecclestone.