The future of the historic grand prix at fabled Monza has taken a blow this week, according to reports in the Italian press. F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone warned earlier this year that the existing Italian grand prix contract, running only until 2016, is a commercial "disaster".
And now, more bad news for Monza has emerged from the government, Italian newspapers including La Stampa reveal.
It is about the so-called 'legge di stabilita', or stability law, in which a decision of the senate has made the collapse of the Italian grand prix beyond 2016 reportedly more likely.
Reports said an amendment of the law allowing a tax exemption to the tune of about EUR 20 million has been ruled out.
Politician Fabrizio Sala is quoted as saying: "The stability law penalises Monza and its Autodrome, putting at risk the future of the formula one grand prix".
But former F1 driver Ivan Capelli, who this year became a director of the automobile club of Milan, vowed to fight for the Italian grand prix.
"Our commitment to find the resources needed is clear," he insisted.
Must be a disconnect here. Sure, the Italians are financially struggling, politically, in a harsh world economy. But I can't imagine an F1 season without a race in Italy, home of Ferrari, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Bugatti, and the dozens of lesser marques which help define road racing.
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Login to replyBtwnDitches
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Must be a disconnect here. Sure, the Italians are financially struggling, politically, in a harsh world economy. But I can't imagine an F1 season without a race in Italy, home of Ferrari, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Bugatti, and the dozens of lesser marques which help define road racing.