Zoom A return to Canada in the works?

French Canadian newspaper La Presse reported on Monday that F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone invited a Montreal businessman and financier to London in order to explore the possibility of reinstating the Canadian Grand Prix next year.

The three meetings held so far took place in Ecclestone's London headquarters, and it appears that the businessman he is talking to - who prefers to remain anonymous at present – is not a representative of any level of the Canadian or Quebec governments, nor is he speaking for the city of Montreal.

The article indicates that the promise of a CDN $10 million annual participation from the federal and provincial governments still stands, leaving $25m to be obtained through revenues.

According to the newspaper, there is a strong possibility that Ecclestone could become the next Canadian Grand Prix promoter if local interests balk at the asking price once again.

In the context of the global economic situation, Ecclestone might accept to lower his demands in order to see Formula 1 return to the North American market, with car manufacturers and sponsors pressuring him to make it work.

The grandstands of the Gilles-Villeneuve circuit hardly ever failed to sell out, contrary to some venues seen at other destinations.

However, in view of the current talks between the teams and the FIA regarding the future regulations of Formula 1, the fact remains that Grand Prix promoters do not entirely know yet what they are signing up for.

Daniel BASTIEN
© CAPSIS International