Interlagos set to be privatised, says new São Paulo mayor

New São Paulo mayor João Doria Jr has announced his intention to see the Interlagos circuit, home of the Brazilian Grand Prix, being privatised following his election last Sunday.

The event has been supported by the state for many years, though the race is actually facing a potential shortage of funding after a change in the federal government. The uncertainty has already led Interlagos’ spot on the FIA’s 2017 provisional calendar to be listed as subject to confirmation.

“We want to maintain Formula 1 and other activities there, and also bring other events,” Doria Jr told Globo TV, according to Motorsport.com. “But a private company will lead the management and investments, not the state.”

“We will maintain the Interlagos Park, which will still be open to general public. We'll do some improvements on safety and access

“But we'll privatise the circuit and kart circuit. The amount previously committed to the circuit will be relocated in areas such as health services and education.”

The organisers of the Brazilian GP moved swiftly to voice their “surprise” at seeing Interlagos TBC for 2017, saying they have “a contract in place until 2020”.

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