Ecclestone denies that a new deadline has been granted to Donington

The spokesperson for the company responsible for the restructuring plans at Donington Park to host the 2010 British Grand Prix announced yesterday that they had been granted a new two-week extension to prove the solidity of their budget. However, Bernie Ecclestone swiftly denied the information this morning.

Simon Gillet, recently the target of English fans’ anger and Bernie Ecclestone’s disdain, has released a statement claiming that his company has reached a milestone and hopes to impress Ecclestone. « We can confirm that Donington Ventures Leisure Limited has two more weeks from today to demonstrate our ability to host the British Grand Prix, provide all information regarding our budget, and meet construction deadlines, » explained Simon Gillet.

The British entrepreneur acknowledged that the Donington project had been undermined by constant speculation about its financial solidity, as well as uncertainty over whether the track, which is undergoing restructuring, would be ready in time.

« We understand the growing frustration of the British public opinion regarding the uncertainty cast over the country’s largest and most successful motorsport event, but we remain committed to fulfilling the promises we made at the beginning of this process in the interest of the sport and the fans. »

But this Tuesday very early in the morning, Bernie Ecclestone rushed to dispute the information. He claims that the deadlines are over and that the contract was not respected. “We have absolutely not decided to give Simon Gillet another deadline,” declared an angry Ecclestone. “We informed him that he is in breach of contract. The contract stipulated that he has 14 days to remedy the breach. Most business contracts are like this. People interpret things in the way that suits them.”

Bernie Ecclestone also clarified that he absolutely did not discuss with Simon Gillet on Monday and insists that no other extension has been granted. “I think they are trying to make me believe that everything is fine,” shrugged Ecclestone, “But I have no reason to discuss anything with him. He must and will remedy the breach… or not. If he fails, then that’s the end of the story. If he succeeds, then we must ensure that he complies with all the terms of the contract.”

Bernie Ecclestone stated that he was ready to renegotiate a multi-year contract with Silverstone.