F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Silverstone will 'definitely' drop the British Grand Prix

Silverstone is set to drop the British Grand Prix as the event is now considered "unaffordable'" for the BRDC, according to F1 business journalist Christian Sylt.

In an article in The Sun, the reporter quotes a senior source close to the British track saying the pull-out will happen.

The case for Silverstone dropping the showcase event gained momentum in the past weeks with BRDC chairman John Grant sending a letter to the institution's members revealing that it was considering pulling out of its contract with Bernie Ecclestone's FOM, and whether it should give notice by the 2017 British GP.

"They will definitely drop the Grand pPix and see what is going to happen over the next two years," F1 business journalist Christian Sylt quoted the source as saying.

"It's a two-year notice period," the BRDC member is quoted by The Sun newspaper. "There is no question about it because it is not affordable."

The race is guaranteed to take place at Silverstone until the end of 2019 as the BRDC can only give notice of its intention to drop the event this year at the earliest.

On the surface, the delay would appear to offer ample time to find a new home for the British GP.

Indeed, Bernie Eccestone claims to have two other potential locations lined up but several alternative venues have also declared their lack of interest in hosting the event.

Many believe the most likely alternative remains Donington which was acquired last week by Brands Hatch owner Jonathan Palmer whose Motorsport Vision company has also offered to buy Silverstone.

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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.

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