Brits back Silverstone as axe threat looms

(GMM) Two British formula one drivers have defended Silverstone amid reports that lagging improvements at the circuit could spell the end of the British grand prix after 2009.

F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone is a seasoned critic of the former World War II airfield in Northamptonshire, while FIA president Max Mosley warned last week that the UK government must come up with $50 million for upgrades or risk losing the race.

David Coulthard and Anthony Davidson, however, say it is not fair that Silverstone is always singled out among a handful of sub-standard formula one venues.

"We go to places like Canada and Brazil which are sh-tholes," Coulthard told The Sun on Tuesday, "yet we race at those tracks happily."

The Scot and Red Bull driver did admit that the facilities at many other circuits are better but said Silverstone's history and layout make up for it.

Fellow Brit and Super Aguri rookie Davidson refers to the feel of pristine venues like Shanghai and Bahrain as "unnatural".

He told PA Sport: "Admittedly – hand on heart – Silverstone is not the best facility in the world.

"But there are plenty of circuits that are worse. Brazil is awful. The track is not very nice, it's bumpy, the asphalt is rubbish. The toilets are rubbish, the paddock is rubbish.

"When you leave the circuit, you also fear for your life. I'm petrified of the place."