Mallorca to Host F1 Race in 2012?

The 2012 season of Formula One might witness the first race in the Balearic Islands in the history of the Great Circus. And that's because the rumors that initially surfaced in the media midway through last season, regarding Mallorca's plans to host an F1 race in the near future, are apparently true.

Back then, it was rumored that the town of Llucmajor, positioned some 9 miles (15 km) outside the Palma de Mallorca Airport, was considered for an F1 project. The race would debut from as early as 2012 and would replace Valencia's street circuit as host of the European Grand Prix.

Apart from providing Ecclestone & Co with another exotic destination year in and year out, the Majorcan race would also ensure a great alternative for the less successful race in Valencia, whose promoters are struggling with low interest and negative balance since the race's debut in F1, back in 2008.

According to German-language Mallorca Zeitung, it seems that the project has been given the go-ahead by the officials in the region and the organizers are now seeking investors to cover the approximate EUR 160-200 cost in setting up the race in 2012.

“The project would help not only the local community but give the whole island a tremendous economic boost,” revealed Llucmajor mayor Joan Jaume.

According to further reports in recent days, it seems that a meeting between high-ranked officials of the region – including the head of the Balearic racing federation Agustin Arbex and mayor Jaume – have already met with Ecclestone to discuss plans for the race.

“Ecclestone was enthusiastic and encouraged us to pursue the project,” revealed Arbex, while also admitting that September 2012 is projected to be the debut of the race in Formula One.