The future of the British GP is in doubt after Dorna’s top boss confirmed to MCN that, following last month’s rain-lashed debacle, Silverstone is not currently licensed to hold a MotoGP race and needs to make significant changes to regain FIM homologation for 2019.
Concerns about the track surface continue and senior figures in the paddock have told MCN that teams have been informed the 2019 British GP might not happen unless immediate changes are made to bring the circuit up to standard.
This has now been confirmed by MotoGP boss Carmelo Ezpeleta, who said Dorna have been clear with Silverstone about what it needs to do to get back to spec. Under new FIM rules, tracks require safety homologation on an annual basis meaning Silverstone will need an inspection before next year’s race. Considering recent events that inspection is likely to be more rigorous than ever.
The reality was less so, but with the cause of the problems still unclear and contractor Aggregate Industries likely to be keen to defend their reputation, answers may have to be sought in court. But Pringle refutes any suggestion the event is in jeopardy and says the circuit is working closely with Aggregate Industries to understand what went wrong, and fix it.
He also said he was prepared to do whatever it takes to ensure the race stays at Silverstone and goes ahead as planned in 2019. Pringle told MCN: “I can point everyone to the commitment we made in the first place to resurface the track in order to secure MotoGP. That was a significant commitment and we’re not going to walk away from MotoGP now. We have a contract, we will honour it and we’re very proud to have the opportunity to host it.
full resurfacing for the second time in 12 months out of their own pocket without support from the contractor.
With the track investigation nearing completion we expect the resolution and time- line for reparatory works and re- homologation will become clear in the coming weeks.
Silverstone has signed a three-year deal to host the British Grand Prix, it has been confirmed.
MotoGP: Where to host the British Grand Prix?