Ecclestone casts doubt on Silverstone’s future

The boss of F1, Bernie Ecclestone, admits that the rising star of the discipline, Lewis Hamilton, could soon find himself without a home Grand Prix.

Before the end of the season in Brazil last weekend, Ecclestone stated during an event organized by the British Racing Drivers Club that he was not satisfied with the condition of the facilities.

He might therefore not renew the contract with the organizers of the British GP upon its expiration in two years.

« I think we have a contract until 2009, after that, I have no idea, » he stated on BBC Radio Five Live’s Sportsweek.

« They know what to do if they want to keep this appointment. But maybe they don’t want to. »

Ecclestone has no qualms about excluding Silverstone from the annual Grand Prix. He was asked if there was a real probability that Great Britain would be without a Grand Prix in the short term.

He replied « Yes, most likely after 2009. »

« There are many things to do. The country must invest at the same level as its European counterparts, who invest to ensure the survival of their Grand Prix. The English must therefore have a circuit that meets the standards, » added Ecclestone.

« It may not be comparable to most of them, but an acceptable level is still required, » he concluded.

The F1 boss had also stated a few days ago that the idea of a circuit in the streets of London, similar to what is done in Monaco or from next year in Singapore, was not forgotten.

We therefore better understand Ecclestone’s words now, and especially what the British must do to continue keeping F1 alive on their island…