Ecclestone seeking a new dealBernie Ecclestone believes the future of the United States Grand Prix can be resolved very soon.
The future of the race has been in doubt ever since a 14-car boycott over tyre safety left only six cars to start last year's event, prompting
angry fans to hiss and boo at the sport.
But
Michael Schumacher's win in this year's race on Sunday came in front of more than 100,000 enthusiastic fans, and Ecclestone thinks it is only a matter of time before he and Indianapolis Motor Speedway chief Tony George can settle a deal.
"I think we should be here, if we can reach an agreement,” Ecclestone said.
Ecclestone was quoted last week as saying that all America gives Formula One is aggravation, but that was believed to a be a ploy to prize more money out of race organiser keen to see Indianapolis stay on the calendar.
But, following the US Grand Prix, he hinted that the race could be handed a new multi-year deal within the next few weeks.
George is enthusiastic about the level of discussion set to take place with Ecclestone and is desperate to see Indianapolis remain on the calendar.
"We appreciate the interest and support from everyone who has inquired about the future of this event," he said in a statement. "Many months ago, Bernie and I agreed to wait until the conclusion of the 2006 event to evaluate our future together. We expect to do that in the coming weeks.”
"The good news is we enjoy the partnership that has been forged and are committed to working toward continuing to build on the foundation that has been laid over the last seven years."
Source AFP
