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Hockenheim to Leave F1?

Hockenheim is likely to join the number of historic circuit to be axed from the Formula 1 calendar in the years to come. According to media reports in Germany – Sport Bild – F1 supreme Bernie Ecclestone argued that he has been an active part of the circuit's revamping programme in 2002 but that he can no longer help Hockenheim financially for 2010.

“It is some time ago that I was involved with a large investment into the Hockenheimring. I will be unhappy if it disappears from the calendar,” argued the 78-year old Englishman, according to the aforementioned source.

Hockenheim is currently hosting the German Grand Prix on an alternative deal with the other important venue in Germany, the Nurburgring. The latter will play the host for the German race in 2009, but there are plenty of concerns Hockenheim will not be able to alternate in 2010 due to financial problems.

German media have revealed that the Formula 1 event at Hockenheim is already loss-making and, if Ecclestone will not step in and rescue the circuit through a series of promotion fees exemptions, it will no longer have the necessary funds to sustain the race.

However, Ecclestone argued that the financial help should not come from him but from state organizations such as the Olympic Committee or the Ministry of Sports, as being part of the F1 calendar will be in the country's best interest.

“It is very much in the interests of a country to keep one of the top brands of sport. We have more people who want races than we can do in any one season,” added Ecclestone.
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