JANUARY 27, 2016

Ecclestone hopes Austin stays on calendar

Bernie Ecclestone has not yet given up on the future of the US grand prix in Austin.

Bernie Ecclestone has not yet given up on the future of the US grand prix in Austin.

Late last year, a dark cloud moved over the popular race when the governor of Texas dramatically slashed funding from $25 million a year to less than $20m.

"To use a technical term," promoter Bobby Epstein said at the time, "I think we're screwed."

But Ecclestone told Time Inc's website The Drive: "We have a contract with them, with COTA. They do a good job and I hope it will continue."

The Circuit of the Americas' October date on the 2016 F1 calendar is listed as "subject to confirmation".

(GMM)