We can host British GP says mayor

LONDON Mayor Sadiq Khan believes the city could one day host the British Grand Prix.

The future of a British race hangs in the balance after Silverstone announced on Tuesday they were activating a break clause in their contract, with the last grand prix at the Northamptonshire track currently set for 2019.

The circuit’s owners, the British Racing Drivers’ Club, insist hosting F1 is not financially viable as their contract includes an annual five per cent increase in cost. Sadiq Khan looks at a Mercedes-AMG Showcar during the F1 Live in London event at Trafalgar Square

The timing of the announcement, on the eve of this season’s British Grand Prix, has led to F1 owners Liberty Media claiming the move is posturing for fresh terms.

But, with London hosting a unique F1 event on Wednesday night with cars running through the city, Khan said a muchheralded street race in London is a viable option in the future. “Let’s wait and see,” he said. “F1 have only just got out of the deal with Silverstone. But the reality is, there are so many F1 fans in London.

“Some hurdles we’ll have to overcome, but there’s no reason at all why it can’t be beyond the whit of us to organise an F1 race in London in the future. Clearly, if it’s the case that talks have broken down with Silverstone, I’m happy to talk and listen to F1.”

Khan confirmed he has spoken to Liberty and backed London to add any potential grand prix to a portfolio of well-run events in the capital.

“There are some hurdles we’ll have to overcome,” he added. I’ve met the new leadership of F1, they’re a breath of fresh air, I’m really happy to talk, listen, and work with them to make it happen.”