Singapore eyes street circuit work

Singapore will begin road works on its street circuit next month before hosting its debut Formula One Grand Prix event next year, the government and the promoter said.

They said the 5.05-kilometre (3.13-mile) street route would offer "a number of overtaking opportunities, fast turns and technically challenging sections."

More than 70 percent of the circuit is made up of the city-state's existing road network.

The world motorsport's governing body FIA in July set the date for the Singapore Grand Prix for September 28 next year.

The design of the paddock, which will house the control tower, garages for the teams, hospitality lounges, the press room and other facilities, is also being finalised, it said.

"We are confident that both the circuit and paddock building will be officially endorsed very soon," said tourism board chief executive Lim Neo Chian, who chair's the event's working committee.

F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone has said the Singapore race may be held at night in a bid to boost global TV ratings, although there are still safety issues that needed to be resolved.

F1 drops US GP

Formula One has turned its back on the United States after Bernie Ecclestone revealed that Indianapolis would not be hosting the grand prix next year.

The F1 supremo and race organiser Tony George have been locked into negotiations for several weeks but failed to reach an agreement.

"We didn't reach an agreement. Let's see if we miss America," said Ecclestone, who had already issued his intent after describing America as "not vital" for F1 saying, "there are bigger markets for us to be in other parts of the world."
Indianapolis chief executive Tony George expressed his dismay at the decision, but remained confident that F1 could return to the circuit in the future.

"After several discussions, Bernie Ecclestone and I were unable to agree how to keep F1 in Indianapolis for the near term," he said. "However, we have agreed to leave the door open for a potential future date."

Eccelstone’s decision to abandon Indianapolis is a dramatic U-Turn after years of talking up the prospect of staging a second grand prix in America possibly in Las Vegas.

However, diminishing crowd numbers and an apathetic regard for Formula One by the fans that have a feast of other motor racing series at their disposal, has prompted Ecclestone to look east and concentrate on breaking new markets in Asia.

Silverstone bosses hold course

Silverstone's owners are determined to plough ahead with their own redevelopment plans for the Formula One circuit.

Plans are continuing despite the receipt of a joint venture proposal from two prominent businessman.

The British Racing Drivers Club, who own the Northamptonshire circuit, believe they are equipped to carry out the improvements required by F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone in order to secure the future of the British Grand Prix beyond the current contract, which ends in 2009.

The principal businessmen behind the partnership, Mike Rockall and Bill Archer, have promised "immediate funds" to redevelop the circuit and secure the independence of the BRDC.

But BRDC chairman Robert Brooks believes his organisation do not need any outside financial backing at this stage.

He said: "We, the BRDC, are very flattered to receive such a substantial offer, but it's one of many and we would reiterate that Silverstone is not for sale.

"We are pressing ahead for the redevelopment of Silverstone which is well down the line in the planning process.

"We are delighted with the help and assistance we are receiving from the local government authorities and the local community.

"Obviously, we will review any joint venture proposal but much further down the road as they may help us fulfil our future objectives."

The BRDC have plans for a £25million overhaul, which go before an EGM at the end of July for approval.

A planning application has already been submitted to the local council and the BRDC are hopeful of approval before the end of the year.

This year's British Grand Prix takes place on Sunday, with rookie sensation Lewis Hamilton carrying home hopes in the race having already established a 14-point lead in the drivers' championship.