PARIS: Formula One’s inaugural Grand Prix of America in New Jersey has been postponed until 2014.

The race was originally scheduled for June 16 next year, subject to confirmation. The street circuit course takes in a spectacular backdrop along the Hudson River and through the towns of Weehawken and West New York.

“The event is not going to happen” in 2013 as planned, F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone said Friday. “Everything is set up, but it’s now too late to finish on time.” Weehawken Mayor Richard Turner earlier told The Jersey Journal that the race would not go ahead next year. The newspaper said Turner and another unnamed mayor claim organizers were behind on road repairs and permits.

“The reason is because they didn’t quite know what they were doing,” Ecclestone said. “They got all the permissions together. Everything was done, that was all fine, but then they missed the boat a little on some financing that was coming in.” Race promoter Leo Hindery Jr. is optimistic it is only a minor setback.

“We are going to be racing at Port Imperial, unfortunately just not as soon as we hoped and expected,” he said. “We promised Governor Christie, the towns, the sport and its international fans the best possible experience, and unfortunately we need additional time to ensure that happens.” The construction issues mainly center on the development of the riverfront facilities, the pit lane area and the paddock garage.

Ecclestone ruled out the Turkish Grand Prix returning as a temporary replacement, saying “No, no, no. It will be 19 races.” Meanwhile, in a statement from the race promoters, Ecclestone made it clear he remains committed to seeing F1 blossom in the United States.

“We will continue to work closely together to realize our dream in 2014,” he said. “As Leo says, we are still going to be racing at Port Imperial, now, however, in 2014.” The 3.2-mile (5.1-kilometer) street circuit at Port Imperial goes along the Hudson River and the steep cliffs of the Palisades, with the Big Apple’s skyline as a backdrop.