As argued by the Renault boss, it would be nonsense to keep a venue on the Formula One calendar only for financial-related reasons, even if it doesn't attract a considerable amount of fans. He therefore called for the immediate scrap of the Istanbul race from the 2010 schedule.
“Even if the likes of Turkey are paying more money, we would rather have stadia that are full. It is better for the spirit of the sport. We want stands full of fans. There is no point spending all that money on an empty cathedral,” said Briatore soon after the FOTA meeting in Bologna the other day.
Briatore couldn't help it responding to Max Mosley's “loonies” jibe once again, even if this time the Italian only preferred to ironically wave good bye to the soon-to-be-retired FIA president.
“After many years under the presidency of Mr Mosley, we want to tell him good luck for the retirement,” added the Renault boss.
As for the Turkish GP dilemma, Briatore will likely face some opposition from F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone in trying to get rid of the race. The 78-year old Brit has rented the Istanbul Otodrom until 2011 in order to host the aforementioned grand prix, not to mention that the Turkish officials have signed a deal until 2011 included to make the F1 calendar.
A few weeks ago, while admitting financial difficulties in setting up the F1 race, Istanbul Park's general director Can Guclu insisted Turkey will commit to their agreement with the FOM until 2011.
Google News