British Racing Drivers' Club President – and the last Briton to lift the
Formula 1 World Championship laurels –
Damon Hill has spoken of the ‘blow' to Silverstone of having seen the British Grand Prix taken away from it, but has insisted the BRDC is blameless and vowed that today's announcement would not necessarily mean the end.
In a surprise ten-year deal, the event will move to
Donington Park from 2010 [see separate story –
click here], after the BRDC and
F1 supremo
Bernie Ecclestone ultimately failed to agree terms over a new financial agreement to renew Silverstone's contract.
Coming mid-negotiations and on the practice day for the 2008 British Grand Prix at the Northants circuit this weekend, however, 1996 title-winner Hill admitted the timing was both something of a shock and somewhat off.
“The BRDC is passionate about motorsport and proud of our contribution to the sport we love and of our very own circuit,
Silverstone,” the 47-year-old underlined. “Naturally, the British Grand Prix is a special event for all British grand prix drivers and motorsport fans.
“Above all, the British Grand Prix's future is very important to all of us. Anything which indicates a secure future for the British Grand Prix must be welcomed.
“Nevertheless, the timing of this announcement is disappointing and a blow to the excellent and hard-working staff of Silverstone, and to the local and national government authorities who have supported us in our development plans to deliver the demanded improvements from FOM.
“It is my opinion that it is not through any lack of effort on behalf of the BRDC and Silverstone that we have been denied the opportunity to see those plans though to the concluding of a contract for the
Formula One Grand Prix beyond 2009. I am looking forward to a great grand prix this weekend and await developments regarding the future.”
