(© Ben Johnston 2014)
In a move that is set to anger Formula One fans around the world the sports commercial rights holder Bernie Ecclestone has warned that the iconic historic Italian Grand Prix at the Monza circuit is likely to lose its place on the Formula One calendar when its contract to host the race expires at the end of 2016.
The Monza circuit has played a pivotal role in Formula One history having staged some sensational championship showdowns and is one of the last of a breed of extremely special Grand Prix venue's like Silverstone, SPA and Monaco. Speaking to La Gazzetta Dello Sport, Ecclestone said:
'Audiences are lower in Italy than anywhere, I don't think we'll do another contract. The old one was a disaster for us from a commercial point of view. After 2016, bye-bye.'
The potential of Monza losing its place on the Formula One calendar comes as a major shock but according to media reports, Ferrari president Luca Di Montezemelo is keen for the company's circuit in Mugello to host the Italian Grand Prix. Moto GP already goes to Mugello for their Italian race so it remains unclear whether or not they would be willing to share the venue with Formula One but there is always the possibility for there to be a swap where F1 would move to Mugello with Moto GP going to Monza.
It is not set in stone that Monza will lose its Grand Prix. Watch this space.
© Ben Johnston 2014
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