F1 returning to Argentina in 2014?

Argentina has not hosted a Formula 1 Grand Prix since 1998, when Michael Schumacher won ahead of Mika Hakkinen and Eddie Irvine. The race was held at the Autódromo Oscar Alfredo Gálvez in Buenos Aires. A new circuit is expected to be built 100 kilometers from Buenos Aires with the aim of attracting F1 around 2014.

This new track will be built in Zarate by the company Populous, which recently participated in the modification of the Silverstone track and is working on a circuit capable of hosting F1 in Mumbai, India. John Rhodes, one of the executives at Populous, hopes that this circuit can one day host F1.

The plan is to create a circuit capable of hosting Formula 1. Once the infrastructure is in place, it will be up to the promoter to handle the arrangements. The challenge is to have a high-performance circuit capable of hosting Moto GP and then add the necessary elements for a Formula 1 race. The main 4.7 km circuit will be suitable for F1 and endurance races; it’s a good distance, John Rhodes told Reuters.

The circuit, named Velociudad Speedcity, will be constructed in two phases. The first phase involves setting up a 3.3-kilometer track, an off-road vehicle circuit, and the construction of the stands and paddocks. This phase is expected to be completed within 14 months. The second phase will follow, finishing the track to reach 4.7 kilometers and ensuring it is homologated by the FIA.

Bernie Ecclestone has never hidden his desire to have fewer races in Europe and more internationally, so Argentina might see his wishes fulfilled by 2014.