Zoom Things looking grim for Melbourne's hopes

Former champion Alan Jones has cast doubt on a Sydney circuit's ability to host the Australian Grand Prix in the future.

It was reported recently that officials of the Eastern Creek circuit, which is located 35 kilometres from Sydney, have commissioned a $350,000 feasibility study into a possible upgrade to accommodate the F1 event after Melbourne's contract runs out in 2010.

But while the circuit is seeking government backing for the proposed project, former Williams driver Jones doubts the Sydney venue's ability to step up to Formula One standard.

"They're talking about spending 30 million dollars on it, which would probably furnish Bernie's office, but I don't think it'd build a good F1 track," Jones, who is now involved in the A1GP series, told Eurosport. "They're kidding themselves. "

Jones was born in Melbourne, the location of Australia's current Grand Prix, but he also doubts whether his home city can retain the race.

"If I was a betting man I wouldn't say F1 is going to be in Melbourne either after 2010.

"I'd be sad to see the Australian GP go. I'm a big F1 fan and proud of the way my country's hosted those events in the past," he said.

Source: GMM
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