Bosses at the ‘new home of British motorsport’, Donington Park, are already putting their plans into action to host the British Grand Prix in 2010.
They unveiled their £100m redevelopment programme as organisers of the grand prix at Silverstone (above) were left reeling in shock by the decision to axe the event. The new 10-year deal was announced by Bernie Ecclestone on the eve of last weekend’s race, ending months of speculation over the future of F1 in the UK.
Speaking about the move, Ecclestone said: “Finally, the uncertainty is over. A contract has been signed with Donington Park and the future of the British Grand Prix is now secure.
“We wanted a world class venue for Formula One in Britain and Donington will give us exactly that.”
The owners of Donington, Simon Gillett and Lee Gill, will invest £100m as they ready the circuit for its debut. But the news has come as a blow to the British Racing Drivers’ Club (BRDC), which owns Silverstone.
President of the organisation Damon Hill was left shocked by the decision. The ex-world champion said: “This announcement is disappointing and a blow to the excellent and hard- working staff of Silverstone, who have supported us in our development plans.”
Donington last held a grand prix in 1993. The race was won by Ayrton Senna, who put on a virtuoso display in the wet, going from fifth to first on the opening lap.