Belgian Grand Prix cancelled

This year's Belgian Formula One Grand Prix has been cancelled, as a result the 2006 calendar has been reduced to 18 races.

The running of the prestigious Spa-Francorchamps race was put in doubt after its promoter filed for bankruptcy last October, but negotiations took place between the local council and Formula One chief Bernie Ecclestone.

Mr Ecclestone claimed that he was prepared to act as promoter but further doubts over the September 17 race emerged last month.

The F1 supremo demanded redevelopment of the historic circuit, but with so little time before the September race, that would have meant the cancellation of other races.

Formula One's world governing body the FIA confirmed that Belgian authorities had requested the cancellation of this year's race, adding: "The withdrawal has been made in order to allow the completion of extensive improvement work to facilities at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit.

"The FIA hopes that the event will be included once again in the Formula One world championship calendar from 2007 onwards."

© Copyright 2003 by Expat-Village.com
[an error occurred while processing this directive]
Top of Page