Formula 1 News

Bernie Ecclestone: Indian Grand Prix plans still on track 

Despite recent rumours and reports to the contrary, F1 Chief Executive Bernie Ecclestone says plans for a Grand Prix in India are still on track. With neither definite funding nor a circuit or street layout for a 2009 race in Delhi yet in place, it was reported recently that Ecclestone had given the Indian Olympic Association until only the end of September to get the wheels in motion. But in an Indian television interview with CNBC-TV18, 76-year-old Ecclestone says: “I hope within the next two years we will be racing in India.” He played down views that India, although with a booming economy, is not yet well enough equipped in terms of infrastructure to host the world’s highest category of motor racing.

“India is the same as everywhere else in the world,” the Briton added, estimating the cost of a circuit at $150m and the additional annual cost at $60m. Ecclestone added: “We race all over the world, so why not in India?”

Also contrary to recent suggestions, Ecclestone insisted that Indian billionaire Vijay Mallya – who has bought the Spyker team – is still a key element of a future Indian Grand Prix. He is the guy to whom we have said to try and get it done for us,” Ecclestone revealed. “We relied on him and hope he does so. We are looking forward and hoping that the Olympic Committee will help us as well.” It also emerges in the Indian press that F1 circuit designer Hermann Tilke on Monday visited three potential circuit sites in Delhi.

source: f1live