Silver stone’ s drama good for future negotiations
Talks over the future of the British Grand Prix at Silverstone continued over the course of last weekend, and circuit bosses hope the action-packed race will highlight the value of the track to the grand prix schedule.
The track’s owners, the British Racing Driver’s Club, invoked a break clause in its contract with F1 operators Liberty Media last season, and the BRDC has been seeking a new deal on more favourable terms.
Silverstone managing director Stuart Pringle said that more negotiations took place last weekend as part of the on-going process. “There is a desire to make something happen from both sides, although we haven’t concluded a commercial deal yet,” he said.
“But I think what was telling was the quality of the race we delivered. After a few forgettable grands prix, this was a really good race. OK, the safety cars helped, but I think it would have been a really strong race even without them – and what a Herculean drive from Lewis Hamilton.”
Pringle’s thoughts were backed by Red Bull boss Christian Horner, who said that the former airfield circuit warrants its place on the F1 schedule.
“The great thing, looking at it impartially, was great racing,” said Horner.
“The last quarter of the race particularly was good hard racing between the drivers. Silverstone is the home of British motorsport, it would be great to see more fans on the infield. It’s been amazing to see so many people come out.
“I’d be amazed if the race moved from here.”