30/11/2010
NEWS STORY
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If sources are to be believed, Bernie Ecclestone could be close to finally winning control of Silverstone
Following an earlier report elsewhere, Pitpass has now had it confirmed by a highly reliable source that leading accountancy firm PricewaterhouseCoopers has put together a proposal for the sale of the Northamptonshire track.
However, while it is claimed that British Racing Drivers' Club members would benefit from the sale of the circuit, our sources say that in fact they are on the verge of being pretty much mugged in the same way as Bernie Ecclestone was in Knightsbridge last week. That said, Bernie can at least take comfort from the fact that he will no doubt eventually get even.
Our sources tell us that those charged with running the affairs of the circuit after the powers were handed over almost carte blanche have made a total pig's ear of it.
The new pit and paddock complex - far more ostentatious and expensive than anything demanded by Ecclestone - is costing a fortune so much so that the powers that be have been scurrying around the world looking for investors and backers but with no success.
To compound the problem, our sources allege that the new complex has been built on a part of the track sitting at the lowest point on the water table, a move that could prove truly disastrous.
Amidst claims that spending on the circuit overhaul could go as much as 30% over budget, we are told that those in control could be looking for a rescue package of as much as £70m, otherwise the whole thing could sink down the plug hole… no pun intended.
Therefore, what are the chances of Bernie stepping forward with a lower bid - say £50m - and finally getting his hands on the Northamptonshire track.
If it happens - sod it, when it happens - you read it here first.