JULY 15, 2006

Meanwhile in Belgium

The Belgian Grand Prix is edging closer to a deal that will guarantee the race next season. The Belgian authorities have now awarded an $18.85m construction contract to a consortium involving four local companies, WUST, Besix, Bodarwe et Greisch. The final details of a deal with Bernie Ecclestone are still going through the legal confirmation process but we expect an announcement soon that an Ecclestone company will take over the promotion, with some significant incentives from the Belgian authorities.

The work, which is planned to start in October, will include a new pit and paddock complex, a longer pit straight which will mean that the hairpin at La Source will be moved further up towards Francorchamps village, while the Bus Stop chicane will be moved down towards Blanchimont.