Jul.18 (GMM) The future of the historic Italian grand prix at Monza continues to hang in the balance.
Ansa, an Italian news agency, quoted F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone as having said sustained efforts to ensure the race is on the 2017 calendar are yet to bear fruit.
“We are trying to solve the problem of Monza, but it is very difficult because it is a political problem,” the 85-year-old reportedly said whilst on holiday in Croatia.
“We are working to transfer the Italian grand prix to Imola, but if we do not succeed, we will have to say ‘goodbye’ to F1 in Italy,” Ecclestone added.
When faced with Ecclestone’s comments, Italian automobile club chief Angelo Sticchi Damiani played down suggestions Monza’s chances are now definitely over.
“In the last few hours, we have finally solved all of the problems between the territorial entities,” he is quoted by La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“We found an agreement and are preparing a binding offer to be sent to FOM within the first days of the week, probably Tuesday. At this point, there are no more political problems,” Sticchi Damiani added.