09/11/2006
NEWS STORY
Speaking ahead of an international sports marketing conference in Spain, Bernie Ecclestone has once again threatened the future of Formula One racing in Britain, whilst outlining plans to concentrate on the eastern market.
Talking to Bloomberg's Alex Duff, Ecclestone, who in mid-2003 warned that Europe would become a "third world economy" within the next decade, has his eyes firmly set on India, having already inked a deal with South Korea, ironically, the day before neighbouring North Korea tested its first nuclear device.
"India is a country that is probably going to grow quicker than China,'' said Ecclestone. "We had to make sure we found the right place in India and we have.''
The Englishman referring to a deal which could see India host its first Grand Prix in 2010, revealed that he is, "far down the line'' in discussions with an (unidentified) regional government, with regards the location and construction of a circuit.
Despite, various contradictory reports, Ecclestone confirmed that the San Marino Grand Prix will not return to the calendar - though this doesn't necessarily rule out Imola as an F1 venue - with a dismissive; "bye-bye".
Referring to his pet theme, the future of F1 racing in Britain, he suggested that France and Britain may have to share a date on the calendar, the race alternating between the two countries.
The French organizers are; "happy to do that", he said. However: "As for the British race, I don't know what they want and I'm not sure they do,'' he added.
With regards his role since CVC bought the sport, Ecclestone insists that nothing has changed, despite the appointment of Martin Sorrell and Peter Brabeck as non-executive directors in September.
"CVC hasn't touched anything, not a thing'' he said. "I'm still CEO and chief executive and I've got a completely free hand."