Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsFormula 1

Could Finland soon have its own Grand Prix ?

As successful as Finns have been in Formula 1, the idea of the country hosting its own Grand Prix seems a bit incongruous, or perhaps not.

Finnish tabloid Ilta-Sanomat is reporting that F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone has held initial talks with potential promoters regarding the organization of a Grand Prix in the country's capital.

Robert Lappalainen, a former racing driver, and his wife Marja-Leena were the organizing force behind the German touring car (DTM) races held in Helsinki way back in 1995 and 1996.

The events attracted a total of some 250 000 visitors and were so popular that Ecclestone suggested that Formula 1 elect domicile in the city, but it never happened.

Marja-Leena Lappalainen has now undertaken a feasibility study of the project, centered around a 4.5 kilometer track starting in Hernesaari area and laid out along the coast line.

The concept would obviously require a hefty infrastructure investment, estimated at $100 million, and a yearly franchise fee, probably in the region of $25 million, paid to FOM.

"DTM's past success in Helsinki proves that we have an enthusiastic fan base," said Juhani Pakari, the Presdient of Finnish Automobile Federation. "Ticket sales would be a success, but there remains the question of finding the investors willing to finance a Grand Prix."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.