Zoom Ecclestone fire-fighting to some extent at Silverstone

The future of the British Grand Prix took a huge step forwards on Saturday, as Bernie Ecclestone guaranteed the country will not drop off the calendar in 2010.

After Donington inked a 17-year deal beginning next year, F1 Chief Executive Ecclestone had warned that - even if the Leicestershire track is not ready for 2010 - his sport will not return to Silverstone.

However, a day after the 'breakaway eight' threatened to abandon his series, the 78-year-old has changed his tune, clarifying that if Donington is not in a position to deliver, Silverstone will 'for sure' host Formula One in 2010.

The circuit however may well look at the breakaway series as they have no contract in place with Formula One at the moment.

Meanwhile, as for the FIA/FOTA war, Ecclestone vowed to 'try' to restore peace to the sport.

"Bernie is the key," former team owner Eddie Jordan said. "If Bernie moves to the teams, that's the end of the game, but he hasn't, so Max remains strong."

Earlier at Silverstone, Red Bull's Christian Horner revealed that Ecclestone is not fond of the disputed 2010 rules.

Ecclestone confirmed: "I sympathise with the teams because they should spend what they like.

"We'll do our best. I'm sure we'll find a way. I think in the end people will have to see sense and not bust all this business, for what? Basically, nothing."

E.A. © CAPSIS International
Source: GMM