Interlagos insists Brazilian GP safe, seeking deal extension

Organisers for the Brazilian Grand Prix insist it will complete the renovation work it needs to ensure it remains on the Formula 1 calendar until the end of its contract after Bernie Ecclestone claimed the event is facing the axe.

Financial woes and political upheaval in Brazil had raised concerns that the renovation works at the Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace - which began in 2015 - had come to a halt, putting its place on the schedule at risk

However, though Ecclestone told media during the most recent race in Azerbaijan that he expected this year's Brazilian event to be the last for the foreseeable future, organisers say the next phase of renovation will be completed in time for this year's 11-13 November event.

Furthermore, it says it is seeking an extension of its current deal - which runs until 2020 - that will see the race stay at Interlagos until 2025.

"The circuit's engineering department conducted a visit for the Brazilian press on 22 June to show the current work which should complete the ambitious three-year, U$ 60 million programme to improve the various facilities of the classic Interlagos circuit before the forthcoming Brazilian Grand Prix which shall take place on 11, 12 and 13 of November," read a statement from the circuit.

"The circuit, a great favourite of drivers of all categories due to its challenging layout and many overtaking opportunities has been hosting the Brazilian Grand Prix since 1990 when the race was moved from the city of Rio de Janeiro.

"The city's current contract runs through 2020 and it is expected that after this year's municipal elections conversations will take place with the Commercial Rights Holder and the FIA to extend it for a further five years period.

"The Brazilian Grand Prix is the only race of the F1 World Championship in South America and has a huge following on worldwide television making it one of the pivotal races of the series."