Ecclestone open to Imola taking Italian GP
ByAutoSport
Published 18/06/2016 at 09:46 GMT
Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone says he will accept Imola as a replacement for Monza as Italian Grand Prix venue if that is what the national authorities choose.
Eurosport
Image credit: Eurosport
There remains an impasse over the future of the Italian GP at Monza, with talks between the circuit and Ecclestone so far proving fruitless.
Imola is ready to host F1 again, having not done so since 2006, following an extensive revamp and has the required FIA Grade 1 licence.
It is believed Imola's chief Selvatico Estense has held discussions with Ecclestone over the possibility of an F1 return.
Monza has hosted F1 every year since the world championship began in 1950 apart from 1980 but its current deal expires at the end of this season.
"We need to rely a little bit on the national sporting authorities in the country to support it," said Ecclestone.
"So if it doesn't happen in Monza and they want to support Imola then we are happy to be in Imola."
When asked if he believes Imola's facility is good enough to host a F1 race, Ecclestone said: "Well they're doing a lot of work, so yes I think so."
He added that he hopes a deal "is sorted out" to keep Italy on the calendar.
Imola has only held the Italian GP once before, standing in for Monza in 1980.
From 1981-2006, it hosted F1 under the San Marino GP banner in a deal that allowed Italy to have two races.
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