Hockenheim hangs on to Grand Prix

Bernie Ecclestone may have given a Russian Grand Prix his seal of approval, but it will not be at Hockenheim’s expense.

Hockenheim has secured the rights to host the German Grand Prix for the next seven years.

Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone is keen to take Grands Prix to other countries outside Europe. Bahrain, Russia and South Africa have been listed as possible venues, but Germans can relax as they will not be losing their race to one of these countries.

The contract has an option for a further five years after 2008 and as part of the deal Hockenheim will have a R320-million revamp which will reduce the length of the track from 6,8km to 4,5km.

The deal is expected to be signed at this weekend’s German Grand Prix between track authorities and Ecclestone.