SILVERSTONE has offered to step in and host more races if the ongoing conflict in the Middle East axes another Grand Prix.
Theafter the countries were struck by Iran in retaliation to US-Israeli air strikes as tensions rose in the Gulf state.
Silverstone CEO Stuart Pringle has not ruled out hosting more races at the track due to the conflict in the Middle East Credit: PA:Press Association
Silverstone previously hosted back-to-back races in August 2020 Credit: Getty
The season has been reduced from the scheduled 24 races to 22 with F1 deciding that no substitutions would be made.
Silverstone CEO Stuart Pringle told Sky News that they have offered to step in if more races in the Middle East, like Qatar and Abu Dhabi, have to be cancelled due to the war.
Pringle said: “I have offered because we stepped in during Covid, and we were able to help Formula One, and of course, will again.
“There are numerous practicalities that need to be considered, but the offer is there, and we can move quickly if asked.”
When asked if Silverstone had spare windows in the year to hold additional races, he added: “I pride myself on not having spare windows, but everything is movable in a crisis.”
during the COVID-19-impacted season.
But F1 has told SunSport that there is “no truth at all” in two races taking place at Silverstone.
The Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix are currently scheduled to take place on November 29 and December 6.
The Bahrain event at Sakhir was scheduled for 10-12 April, while the Saudi event in Jeddah would have taken place a week later.
F1 president and chief executive officer Stefano Domenicali said at the time of cancelling Bahrain and Saudi: “While this was a difficult decision to take, it is unfortunately the right one at this stage considering the current situation in the Middle East.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank the FIA as well as our incredible promoters for their support and total understanding as they were looking forward to hosting us with their usual energy and passion.
“We cannot wait to be back with them as soon as the circumstances allow us to do so.”
The Miami Grand Prix takes place this weekend after the one-month break, with leading the standings and nine points clear of teammate George Russell.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
