German Grand Prix to change hands?

By Nick Sparkes
December 28 2005

After reports in Germany that the Hockenheim racetrack is to face bankruptcy, the Nürburgring racetrack which hosts the European Grand Prix in the same country could be changed to the German Grand Prix, with a switch every year between the tracks.

Germany and Italy are currently the only two countries with two Grand Prix's. But with more countries building racetracks and offering to host Grand Prix's, its becoming harder for countries like Germany and Italy to host more than one Grand Prix per season.

With the announcement that the Hockenheim racetrack is to face bankruptcy unless the German Government step in, the Nurburgring racetrack could host the German Grand Prix with a switch between the two every year.

"It could be smart to switch tracks for this Grand Prix," said Walter Kafitz of the Nurburgring. "We proposed the idea to Bernie Ecclestone and I expect him to get back to me with a positive reply. He also knows there will be more and more different countries hosting a race."

Italy are also having problems with its Monza racetrack, with the circuit fighting a new local noise limit which could lead to one of the fastest circuits on the calender being washed out.

It's also feared that Silverstone could be hit next if the Green Piece Campaigners feel that V8 engines are disturbing the local wildlife’s sleep.