Silverstone and F1 agree terms on British GP double-header

40

Silverstone Circuit and Formula 1 have agreed a deal for the British track to host two Grands Prix this summer, but questions regarding quarantine procedures in the UK still threaten the event.

Silverstone and Liberty Media had been locked in a financial standoff regarding the fee demanded by the track to stage its rounds of the F1 world championship.

But the BRDC, the promoter of the British Grand Prix, and F1's commercial rights holder have ironed out their differences.

However, the event remains in jeopardy because of the UK's plans to impose a two-week quarantine on all travelers entering Britain.

Provisional 2020 F1 calendar discards three main venues

"I am delighted to confirm that Silverstone and Formula 1 have reached an agreement in principle to host two races behind closed doors this summer, Silverstone boss Stuart pringle told BBC Sport.

"However, these races will be subject to government approval, as our priority is the safety of all involved and strict compliance with Covid-19 regulations.

"I would like to thank all our fans who have been so supportive throughout this and to assure them we are determined to do all we can to help Formula 1 put on a show this summer."

Reports indicate that Formula 1 is trying to secure a waiver from the UK that would allow its staff and team personnel travelling from abroad to be exempted from the quarantine or undergo a shorter period of isolation.

Silverstone consecutive race weekends are likely to take place on July 26 and August 2, while the opening rounds held in Austria have been penciled in for July 5 and 12.

The free weekend inserted in between the second Austrian race and the first British round could serve as the buffer period during which a limited quarantine could perhaps take place for the F1 community.

Formula 1 has yet to comment on its British GP deal and on the possible logistical solutions that could be agreed with the UK government regarding its quarantine measures.

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.