Sep.9 (GMM) Bernie Ecclestone has played down reports formula one could be headed to Iran in the near future.

Local media reports this week revealed that officials are building a $85 million track south of capital Tehran, with construction to "follow all F1 standards".

A subsequent media release clarified that the track will only be seeking Grade 2 certification by the FIA initially, which is not sufficient to host a grand prix.

But arguably the biggest obstacle is the country itself, with Telegraph correspondent Tom Cary arguing that "it is difficult to conceive of a less likely venue" for F1.

The Daily Express' Bob McKenzie agreed that the thought of an Iranian grand prix "under the present repressive regime" is "bizarre".

F1 chief executive Ecclestone said: "We have three or four countries already waiting for a race. I don't think Iran is top of our list."

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