Ecclestone happy with new British GP deal
"I am pleased that we have reached an agreement with Silverstone for the retention of the British Grand Prix," said Ecclestone. "This will ensure that Great Britain will remain on the Formula 1 calendar for many years to come, which is something I have personally always wanted to see happen. The team at Silverstone already knows how to organize a good event, so now everyone can look forward to next summer at Silverstone," he added.
Statement following the announcement that the British Grand Prix will be held at Silverstone from Northamptonshire Enterprise Limited and Northamptonshire County Council:
David Wright, Chief Executive of Northamptonshire Enterprise Limited (NEL) said:
"We're delighted about the recent announcement from the FIA that the Formula One British Grand Prix will stay at Silverstone for the next 17 years.
"This is not only fantastic news for Silverstone but for Northamptonshire as well and for all those employed in the high performance engineering and motorsport industry based in the county.
"Northamptonshire is the home of British motorsport, of which Silverstone plays a vital role. The Northamptonshire circuit has successfully hosted the British Grand Prix since the first event in 1950, bringing £54million into the British economy every year, 94% of which is spent within a 60 mile radius of Silverstone.
The decision to keep the British Grand Prix at Silverstone pays testament to the hard work put into developing the circuit to the world class facility it is today. Great credit must also be given to county partners and all those involved in making sure the British Grand Prix weekend runs so smoothly. NEL will continue to work closely with Silverstone to preserve its position within Northamptonshire as a world-renowned motorsport venue."
Cllr Jim Harker, Leader of Northamptonshire County Council, said: "Securing the British Grand Prix at Silverstone is excellent news for the county and I'm absolutely delighted with this decision. The county council has been working closely with Silverstone and I'm very pleased that this work has been such a success, long may it continue.
"Having such a high profile event in Northamptonshire is great for motorsport, great for county people and fantastic for the local economy, bringing benefits all round.
"Northamptonshire is increasingly being recognized as the home of British motorsport and the recent success from the Brawn GP team shows that we are continually achieving highly in this area, with numerous automotive industry companies basing themselves here and a local skills base second to none.
"There's no doubt that Silverstone is an excellent, world-class venue and the Grand Prix belongs here. The county council looks forward to playing a part in furthering its future success and growth."