Williams delighted as last-ditch agreement saves British GP
The British Racing Drivers’ Club, which owns Silverstone, had until the close of business yesterday to agree a contract with Formula One commercial rights holder Bernie Ecclestone.
If no agreement had come, the British Grand Prix would have been axed for the first time since Silverstone hosted the first world championship race in 1950.
But less than a day before world governing body FIA announced the definitive version of next season’s calendar, the BRDC struck a deal with Ecclestone to host the British Grand Prix for the next five years.
Williams, whose team is based just 40 miles from the track, was relieved to hear yesterday’s verdict.
The Englishman, who on Monday voiced fears the race would not take place, said: “I am truly delighted that the negotiations have been successful and that the British Grand Prix has been safeguarded.”
BRDC chairman Ray Bellm is convinced yesterday’s deal gives Silverstone the security needed for the circuit’s facilities to be developed. He is adamant he has closed a deal which does not place undue pressure on his resources.
The French and San Marino grands prix are also secure as a result of the initial deal which allowed Silverstone to remain on the calendar.
Ecclestone needed to negotiate an expanded calendar to include Turkey next year and had earmarked France and Britain as the races to be struck off if no agreement was possible.
But with teams rallying to support Silverstone and accept an expanded calendar, today’s official FIA calendar announcement will include all three.
