Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone says Singapore wants to get rid of its grand prix after next year’s race.
There have been quite a lot of rumours surrounding the future of various F1 races, including Germany, Brazil and Canada.
We’ve also seen speculation about whether Singapore would extend its F1 race contract, which comes to an end next year.
Well, according to Ecclestone, Singapore Grand Prix chiefs don’t want to renew the deal for the night race.
Talking to Auto Motor und Sport, Ecclestone also admitted he wouldn’t be surprised if a big manufacturer pulls out in the next few years.
Here’s what he had to say:
“It could happen to us that Mercedes and Ferrari run away. But honestly, if the races get better, this may not be such a terrible vision. We have to expect the manufacturers to leave us anyway. Mercedes will retire on the day when it suits them and it’s something we had before – look at Honda, BMW and Toyota. They go when Formula 1 has done the job for them. There is no gratitude.
“It is the same with the organisers. Look at what we have done for Singapore. Yes, the Grand Prix has cost Singapore a lot of money, but we’ve also given them a lot of money. Singapore was suddenly more than just an airport to fly to or from somewhere. Now they believe they have reached their goal and they do not want a grand prix anymore.”
Ecclestone also said F1 was doing its best to keep Canada on the calendar and Brazil too, but admitted things are tougher for the German GP.