05/03/2009
NEWS STORY
Despite being one of the most popular races on the F1 calendar - with fans and drivers alike - the Belgian Grand Prix is losing money and visitors.
Last year's Grand Prix, which proved to be one of the most controversial of the season, saw attendances down 10,000 on 2007, and organizers suffering a loss of £3.4m ($4.8m).
Having been dropped from the calendar in 2006 due to funding problems, the government subsequently stepped in as it recognised the event as a major tourist attraction for the region. However, last year's losses are sure to give ammunition to the government's critics, especially in these difficult times.
In an attempt to stop the financial rot and increase attendance, organizers will target those fans who would have attended the French Grand Prix. The fact that the race takes place over the weekend of Britain's late summer holiday may also attract race fans from the UK, especially with the future of Britain's race still shrouded in uncertainty.