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With Donington almost certainly losing the contract to host the British grand Prix, is seems as if the ball is back in Silverstone’s court with the long time battle between organizers and Bernie Ecclestone’s FOM set to continue.
As usual, the main sticking point in the cost involved and Ecclestone has already refused to back down on the price he requires for the traditional venue to host the event, even it means axing the British Grand Prix altogether, but BRDC President, Damon Hill is confident that they will be able to resolve the situation quickly.
"I am hopeful something can be resolved. There is a good chance we can sort something out soon," he said in the Guardian.
While Hill is arguing that Silverstone should be granted special status, like Monaco, for its long history with the sport, Ecclestone counter argues that it would not be fair on the other new venues to do a cut price deal with Silverstone.
"There are few circuits now that have always been on the calendar and have always been revered that make them 'special value' circuits to the history of Formula One. Silverstone is one of them. It may not be Monaco but it's got its own feel to it. It would be a shame not to recognise that. Great tracks and great events are necessary for Formula One to be regarded as a great sport," Hill said.
“He can get a value globally that is far in excess of what he can get for the UK. We can respect that it is a difficult position for him to be in. He has to answer to his shareholders. Other countries are bound to pay a premium, but their revenue streams are more open than they are to a promoter in the UK. We feel the best thing to do is to designate a venue with a long enough term plan that you can tailor your investments. There are options on the table. There are discussions taking place and I'm hopeful something can be sorted out." |