British Grand Prix saved

After months of intense speculation a deal has been struck to allow Silverstone to host the Formula One British Grand Prix.

At one point, to the dismay of F1 fans, it looked as if there would be no British Grand Prix but the new 17 year deal has allayed those fears.

Donington Park looked set to host the Grand Prix in 2010 after winning the contract in 2008.

However, the company in charge, Donington Ventures Ltd went into administration and were unable to satisfy Formula One Management (FOM) that they could raise the necessary funds and the contract was void.

Silverstone is one of the oldest circuits on the Grand Prix calendar and first hosted the British Grand Prix in 1948. Next year’s race will take place on 11 July and tickets are now on sale.

Some of F1’s biggest names have spoken of their delight at the news.

World Champion Jenson Button said: “I’m so glad that they have been able to sort something out, and it’s not just a one-year deal either, it’s for many years, which is great news.”

And Button’s new McLaren teammate and ex-world champion, Lewis Hamilton, also said: “It’s fantastic news the British Grand Prix will stay on the calendar for 2010, and it’s great the race will be at Silverstone.”

Race commentator, and former F1 driver, Martin Brundle said: “It’s brilliant news. I always assumed it would happen in the end because everyone wanted the same thing. The new circuits are exciting and interesting but they always had to balance up with the historic circuits, like Silverstone.”

As part of the deal the circuit will under go renovations including a new pit land and paddock aswell as additional seating.