Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone feels the passionate backing of the city of Austin ensured the United States Grand Prix proved to be a resounding success - and will be for years to come.

Bosses at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin claim they have paid Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone the money owed to stage the United States Grand Prix next year, and have resumed work at the new purpose-built facility.

Construction work has been halted at the proposed venue of next year’s United States Grand Prix amid claims by the circuit’s owners that they have not yet been granted a contract to stage the race.

United States Grand Prix circuit construction chiefs have been left bemused by Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone’s remarks that have cast doubt on the race.