A Russian Grand Prix?

[Sparky]

From F1 News:

Reports from Europe indicate that the Russian government has given permission for a proposed F1-class road racing circuit be constructed near Moscow.

Tom Walkinshaw Racing entered into an agreement with Moscow authorities last December to build the $100m facility on Nagatino Island, just a couple of miles south of the Kremlin. The construction is expected to begin in three months and will take 18 to 24 months to complete. The facility has been designed to accommodate such future additions as hotels, casinos, restaurants and a yacht club.

Once complete, Russia will join the list of countries anxious to bring the high-profile spectacle of Formula 1 races to its venue. One suspects they will be rather high on the list.

A few questions...
Anyone remember the reports recently about the 'Russian Mafia and the Grand Prix Plans'? Do you suppose the Mafia has so much power that they could influence a decision?
Is there a market for Formula 1 races in Russia?
Do any of the teams (or their sponsors) actively sell their cars (or products) there?
What elements would you like to see included in this new circuit? (I take it chicanes are out? )

Is this a good thing for Grand Prix racing in general, and the old chestnut of "Which circuit will be dropped?" comes up again...