Future California track targets 'Silicon Valley GP'

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A plan to host an F1 race in the heart of the Silicon Valley in California has received an initial favourable response from local authorities.

The town of San Juan Bautista, located just south of San Francisco, could be the location of a 550-acrte "Motor & Technology Center of Excellence" facility which ambitions to host a "Silicon Valley Formula 1 Grand Prix".

The idea is being promoted by business entrepreneur Williams Yao and his company WY2M. The current parcel under consideration would include a raceway, convention center, eateries, luxury condominiums and hotel, as well as high-end shops and boutiques.

"This venue will be the epicenter of innovation – from the beauty and sophistication of the racecar to the ever-evolving technology landscape – we will showcase both racing and the tech industry in a seamless fan experience," says Williams Yao.

Yao says he has brought two familiar F1 faces on board to help create a state of the art racing facility: former Circuit of The Americas promoter Tavo Hellmund and F1's resident circuit designer Herman Tilke.

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"During our highlight event, the Silicon Valley Formula 1 Grand Prix, we will utilize the spectacle of Formula 1 to create a fully immersive fan experience around automotive innovation.

"The latest technology will be on full display, from electric to self-driving cars, we will create a secondary experience that attracts the attention of the world.

"With both Tavo Hellmund and Tilke on board, we have scoped and sequenced this project completely.

"The entire track could be easily reconfigured on need basis and to accommodate multiple concurrent events."

This ambitious project is obviously in its early stages and still requires certifications and permissions from planning commissioners and the County.

It's also unclear where the project stands in terms of funding, or whether it would receive a favourable opinion from Formula 1 itself.

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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.