Formula One news
'Silverstone has never looked so good'
22 June 2009The Silverstone circuit is fully prepared to host next year's British Grand Prix in the event of Donington Park not being fit to host the event. With the home race of Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button looking to be held away from the Northamptonshire venue for the first time since 1986, circuit bosses have expressed their delight after a highly successful show on Sunday.
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| Silverstone hopes that 2009's race will not have been its last |
The last time the British Grand Prix was not held at Silverstone, reigning Champion Lewis Hamilton was just a one-year-old baby. With F1 commercial rights holder Bernie Ecclestone's clarification on previous comments having raised Silverstone's chances, however, those in charge of the circuit have reminded Formula One Management (FOM) of its readiness to step in next year. "We've got an agreement, as everybody knows, with Donington and I'm hoping they can complete the agreement and do all the things they are supposed to do," Ecclestone said on Saturday. "If they can't, for sure we will come back to Silverstone."
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| 'Mansell Mania' dominates proceedings in 1992 |
With this in mind, the atmosphere within the BRDC-run venue became just that bit more enjoyable for the circuit's owners at the weekend. "We have the best fans in the world and I sincerely hope to see them back at Silverstone next year," said Richard Phillips, managing director of the circuit. "There have been growing concerns over Donington Park's ability to host the British Grand Prix in 2010 and beyond, but comments over the weekend from Mr Ecclestone and the FIA have been reassuring."
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| Brands Hatch was the last venue other than Silverstone to host the British Grand Prix |
With past surveys having tipped British motor racing fans as some of the most knowlegable in the world, Silverstone is keen to see the local crowd retain a race at home. "The support from fans over this weekend has undoubtedly had an impact on the way they (Formula One Management) are viewing the future of the British Grand Prix and Silverstone," continued Phillips, who was delighted to hear almost all drivers individually praising the track.
"We've said all along that Silverstone is ready to step in if Donington's plans fall over and that remains the case. Silverstone has never looked so good; this year's British Grand Prix was phenomenal, one of the best run and well supported events I have ever worked on, and we're hopeful that we'll see everyone back here next year.
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"The support for Silverstone and the British Grand Prix over the past three days - from fans, drivers and teams - has been overwhelming. The fans have a real affinity with Silverstone and the drivers love coming here, it's a fantastic circuit. You just have to look at the attendance figures over the past three days, and Sebastian Vettel's reaction to winning here, to see that Silverstone is a very special place."
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