MAY 11, 2001

Russia gets Ecclestone stamp of approval for GP

RUSSIA is set to host a Grand Prix in the future after Formula One ringmaster Bernie Ecclestone gave the country's plans the seal of approval on Friday.

Ecclestone travelled to the Russian capital Moscow on Friday, where a new circuit is already under construction, and after meeting with Moscow mayor Yuri Luzhkov said the country is set to be the next new host of a Grand Prix.

"We have eight venues seeking Formula One rights at the moment, but I believe that this is where the next event should be," Ecclestone said.

"We are very happy with the venue. I am sure a Formula One race track can be constructed."

Arrows team-boss Tom Walkinshaw has pioneered the construction of a new circuit at Nagatino Island, in the south of Moscow, although it is expected to take another two years to complete.