News emerges about future F1 calendar
The F1 calendar of the future is now shaping up.
Earlier, there was doubt about the future of the historic races at Monza, Silverstone and Barcelona, and reports that Zandvoort will be the host of a 2020 Dutch GP.
Dutch commentator Olav Mol said on Ziggo Sport this week that an official announcement about Zandvoort's new contract is due "between May 14 and 16".
And The Sun newspaper reports that the new Dutch race could replace the Spanish grand prix in Barcelona.
There is better news for Silverstone, with the rumour that a new contract for 2020 and beyond has now been agreed with Liberty Media.
But the circuit announced: "Unfortunately at this time we can confirm that we have not agreed a contract. However, talks are still progressing."
Monza, though, looks completely safe, with the Italian automobile club Aci announcing that talks are now going ahead regarding a deal for 2020-2024.
On its official website, Formula 1 said "a formal signature" is being sought "as soon as possible".
Finally, Auto Motor und Sport reports that Saudi Arabia wants a grand prix to take place in Riyadh.
Apparently, the Saudis are offering "$60 million" in annual race fees. "There is no race track yet. Let's see what Liberty Media decides," said German correspondent Michael Schmidt.
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Suddenly, it would seem, every country wants a GranPrix. Mostly, it also seems, they want them in or near the largest city's center. This normally leads to a 'temporary street circuit', which is, as we have found out, does not provide for the most exciting races due to track limitations like runoff areas, widened turns and the always eventful drain covers coming off. While I will agree that proximity to the vast population is important, it is the venue's ability to draw fans that can see more than one turn or two while also drawing the supporting races due to a favorable racing environment. If anyone can build a non-citified track and fill the place with enthusiasts it is the Saudis. With the advent of E-Formula Racing taking over the cities, it is OUT of the cities that they need to go. Neither Formula seems to do well on the others bespoke track - except perhaps Monaco, Russia and maybe a slightly shortened Mexico City.
It also is apparent that stretching the calendar to more than 20-to-21 races severely limits any practice time and very little "winter development" time. All parties in F1 should sit down and discuss this situation to the benefit of all concerned - especially including drivers!
The sport of auto raving regarding F1 is at a sort of tipping point right now, with too much up-in-the-air-and-unresolved issues. Perhaps it has always been this way, but this last generation or two has had the advantage of giving our opinion in the matters affecting what was once looked forward to with great anticipation.
Wow, another one, two by the Star. The Scuderia once again were indecisive in their strategy early. They need someone new in the saddle on the pit wall. It’s just not working. Even though the caution closed up the field, it was too late. Verstappen was awesome. Vettel did as well as he could under the circumstances, but the tire issue at the beginning doomed him for today. Boy, it sure is getting monotonous watching the same five drivers every race. The Star finished one two 44 times!! It used to be a competition. It is slowly becoming a two horse race except horse racing is still unpredictable as evidenced last week. Can’t wait to see y’all in Austin!!
Best sport by far,and getting better every year