Donington GP boss muses F1 cynicism

Thu, 12 February 2009, 09:58

Feb.12 (GMM) The F1 establishment is reluctant to embrace Simon Gillett’s plans for the 2010 British grand prix because his veins “don’t ooze petrol”, the Donington Park boss claims

Ever since next year’s switch from Silverstone to Donington was confirmed, scepticism has surrounded the Leicestershire venue’s ability to raise the money it needs to bring the track up to F1 standard by next year

Recent media reports have focused on debts and legal actions, causing Gillett to muse on Wednesday: “I’m not of the establishment and I’m not courting the team principals

“If you cut me open I don’t ooze petrol. Instead, I ooze business — I think that’s frowned upon a little,” he suggested to the Daily Telegraph newspaper

He was speaking at a media event during which Donington’s proposed new F1 layout was revealed with the help of a Williams simulator

Gillett played down all the rumours about contract and rent disputes, as well as reports his company is crippled amid millions in debts

“You can take things in different ways depending on how you want to spin the figures. Financially we’re in rude health,” he insisted

“Is this the best time to be raising money? No it isn’t. Are we on the brink of ruin? Absolutely not,” said Gillett

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