- 06 Dec 09, 14:22#173297
YEAH!!!!
The deal between the British Racing Drivers' Club and Bernie Ecclestone to save next year's British Grand Prix is all but signed and sealed, according to a report.
F1 supremo Ecclestone had threatened to pull the race from the 2010 calendar following Donington's failed attempt to come up with the necessary cash to host the race. Silverstone's bosses decided to step in and the two parties have been in negotiations more than a year.
With discussions dragging on, Ecclestone warned that if the matter is not resolved before the FIA World Motor Sport Council on December 11, Britain would lose the grand prix.
It looks, though, like he will be getting his way.
The Daily Mail reports that 'The British Grand Prix has been saved. It will take place at Silverstone next year after the circuit and Bernie Ecclestone finally reached agreement.
'The news will be officially announced in central London next week, bringing an end to the on-off saga after 18 months of uncertainty.'
The biggest sticking points during negotiations were the £12m fee which Ecclestone wants for the race annual and a multi-year contract for Silverstone, but according to the report, those problems have been ironed out.
'It is understood that a long-term deal which does not imperil Silverstone's financial stability has now been struck,' the paper added.
'British Racing Drivers' Club president Damon Hill will be making the announcement, which will whet the appetite for a duel between new McLaren team-mates Lewis Hamilton and world champion Jenson Button.'
YEAH!!!!
.
