Just as the first practice session of the day came to an end at Silverstone a few minutes ago, the International Automobile Federation sent out and email and the local media center staff handed out a statement, saying that the contract to maintain the British Grand Prix had been signed. But the race will move from Silverstone, where it first took place in 1950 and continues to this day, to Donington Park:
Following discussions with Formula One Management, the FIA can confirm that the British Grand Prix will be retained on the Formula One World Championship calendar. From 2010 the new home of the British Grand Prix will be Donington Park.
Max Mosley, FIA President said, “After many years of patient but fruitless negotiation with the BRDC, we are delighted that Bernie has nevertheless been able to ensure that the British Grand Prix will keep its place on the Formula One World Championship calendar.
“We understand that the development programme planned for Donington will achieve the very high standards we and FOM expect from a modern F1 circuit. Finally, British Formula One fans will get the Grand Prix venue they deserve.”
Bernie Ecclestone, FOM President said, “Finally the uncertainty is over. A contract has been signed with Donington Park and the future of the British Grand Prix is now secure.
“We wanted a world class venue for Formula One in Britain, something that the teams and British F1 fans could be proud of. The major development plans for Donington will give us exactly that. A venue that will put British motor sport back on the map.”
“I am sorry that we could not have helped Silverstone to raise the money to carry out the circuit improvements and run Formula One. I believe that the government should have supported them which would have cost probably less than .002% of the government’s commitment for the Olympic Games.”
Sorry to say so, but I will be looking forward to the change. Silverstone is a hell of a place to go - it hasn't been developed for years - and Donington has promised to invest and improve what is already an interesting track. Sure, Silverstone is an interesting track too, but this time, I think the change will be positive.
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