MARCH 11, 2016

Brazil plays down doubts over 2016 race

Just as the US grand prix ended its uncertainty, doubts have now emerged about whether this year's Brazil race will take place in November.

Just as the US grand prix ended its uncertainty, doubts have now emerged about whether this year's Brazil race will take place in November.

Brazilian reports say F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone told a media outlet that talks with organisers about solving a financial matter were underway.

The Portuguese-language Grande Premio quoted Interlagos race promoter Tamas Rohonyi as acknowledging Ecclestone's comments.

"When Bernie said that we are working to solve problems, he is referring to the effort to reduce organisational costs," he said.

"An example: there was a study to reduce medical staff costs required by the FIA and it was promptly answered," Rohonyi added.

So he played down claims Brazil's future on the F1 calendar is now under a cloud.

"Doing a major international event in the current situation is difficult, but not impossible. It will be done according to the contracts in place at least until 2020," said Rohonyi.

"But it is a fact that all the races that are not paid for by governments face difficulties because of the astronomical fees."

(GMM)