Donington 2010 in Great Britain, here we go!

Simon Gillett, director of Donington Park circuit, has taken another step towards hosting the British race in 2010. On Thursday evening, he obtained the authorization he needed to reorganize the circuit with a budget of 100 million pounds (more than 112 million euros).

A spokesperson for the circuit confirmed that the local authorities in Leicestershire have approved the track’s plans for a new pit lane and new paddocks with additional grandstands and a brand-new media center. All this will be ready in time for the 2010 event.

Donington Park had reached an agreement with Bernie Ecclestone in the middle of last year to host the race in 2010, but the track modifications were too extensive. Approval from local authorities was essential.

However, Simon Gillett recently stated that he was confident the circuit would receive the necessary approval. He maintained a certain distance from the skeptics who thought there were too many challenges to overcome to host the race in 2010.

Speaking about his reaction to the skeptics, Gillett stated: « I don’t have to convince them and I’m not about to convince them. They will be convinced themselves by seeing the new infrastructures. »

« They will see when buildings rise from the ground and cars are on the starting grid that everything was possible. »

« I remain determined to approach all stages of this development with the same passion and vigor as during the planning phase. »

« I remain fixed on this end of July 2010 date. I remain confident and positive, which will allow us to reach our goal. I will not rest until I am watching the Donington Park Grand Prix next year. »

With this authorization, work on the track should begin soon.

Gillett added that he hoped to secure funding for his expansions through a corporate bond scheme, similar to those used in the new Wembley Stadium.