Ecclestone Hints at Donington Grand Prix Return

Formula one could be back at Donington in 2009 for the first time since 1993, according to the sport's controller of commercial rights, Bernie Ecclestone. "We want the British grand prix to be staged at a venue which befits an event of its stature," Ecclestone said. "Donington have said they are going to build everything we want."

Ecclestone's threat to switch the race from Silverstone could be designed to put pressure on its owners, the British Racing Drivers' Club, before the race on July 6. "I've been in negotiations for a long time and whether or not we're going to do a deal with Donington or Silverstone, I don't know," he told The Times. "Only time will tell. But I think there's more chance of Donington having the money."

Ecclestone has made similar comments in the past, although the track and facilities at Donington would require considerable updating and the surrounding area suffers from severe traffic congestion.