NEWS // DONNINGTON F1 PLANS OVER?

With the final deadline for UK race circuit Donnington Park and Simon Gillett's Donington Ventures Leisure Ltd to present clear evidence that the substantial funds for the redevelopment of the circuit are in place, Silverstone waits in the wings for possible re-negotiations to take place regarding next years British Grand Prix.

With Gillett seemingly in breach of contract and the race having even been removed from the circuit's 2010 website calendar it would seem that the initial fears of many British fans are set to be correct and the ambitious plans to completely restructure and redevelop Donnington Park have failed.

Rumours still persist that Bernie Eccelstone may put up the money himself, but it would seem that if next years British GP is going to take place, that Silverstone will have to come to the rescue... [read more]

Damon Hill President of the British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC) which owns the airfield circuit told the UK "Guardian" newspaper “I am hopeful something can be resolved, there is a good chance we can sort something out soon. I have been arguing quite strongly – apparently without much success – that from my point-of-view as a driver, it is crucial to have special challenges that are a true test of a driver in a car.

“There are few circuits now that have always been on the calendar and have always been revered that make them 'special-value' circuits to the history of F1. Silverstone is one of them. It may not be Monaco, but it's got its own feel to it. It would be a shame not to recognise that. Great tracks and great events are necessary for F1 to be regarded as a great sport".

We at CTD wholeheartedly support these views and think that aside from Damon's comments Donnington Park should remain in it's current form and not fall foul to being altered beyond recognition by a certain German "Track Designer"!

Donnington Park hopefully will remain the same and the famous "Craner Curves" will not be lined with asphalt run off completely ruining one of UK motorsport's most iconic "Motorsport Views" (Above)

Photo: Renault Sport
Editorial: Neil Tozer