Jerez Might Quit as F1 Test Track

Many of the tracks that are currently used for testing by several Formula 1 teams might not continue their partnership with the series starting next year. Following FIA's latest cost-cutting measures for Formula 1, with the testing ban being probably one of the most dramatic change in the years to come, venues like Jerez or Barcelona might not stick around.

Although the testing ban imposed by the FIA only refers to off-season testing, the traditional tracks – most of them located in southern Spain – will find it very difficult to make testing financially profitable. Jerez officials were the first to announce that, starting 2011 – when their F1 deal ends – they will reconsider hosting testing events for the F1 teams.

“Jerez is the preferred circuit of the F1 teams and many efforts on our part have been applied in this area. At the moment it is really difficult. So far we only have eight days of testing confirmed for next year,” admitted Juan Alvarez, director of the Jerez circuit, in an interview for Spanish newspaper Marca.

“We are approved with Formula One until 2011 but after that we'll have to see. It is too early to say right now but it does not look very good. I think if the situation stays the same, we will have to think seriously. I don't know if we will be interested to continue with the tests because it costs too much. If we get 20 days it is profitable, but seven or eight...?” added Alvarez.

Jerez currently holds more than a third of the existing testing days throughout the year, with 22 days (out of 63). Following the testing ban imposed by the FIA last Friday, Jerez will only get 8 days for 2009, while applications for the 2010 and 2011 are yet to be confirmed.