New Silverstone Circuit Opened
Added on Friday, April 30th, 2010 by Carole Nash Editor | No Comments
New Silverstone Circuit Opened
Silverstone Circuit was officially re-launched yesterday following the completion circuit modifications to the Grand Prix circuit.
With Silverstone due to host Formula One, MotoGP and World Superbikes this season, the circuit has undergone a complete overhaul with the construction of a new “Arena” section, making the circuit more suitable for motorcycle racing and bringing the venue closer to the standards demanded by F1 promoter Bernie Ecclestone.
His Royal Highness the Duke of York, KG, UK Special Representative for International Trade and Investment, formally cut the ribbon to open a major new section of track that represents the first stage of a multi-million pound investment in the circuit, becoming an honorary member of the BRDC in the process.
Former F1 World Champion, and President of the BRDC, Damon Hill OBE, David Coulthard and the motorcycling father-and- son combination of Ron and Leon Haslam, representing the worlds of MotoGP and World Superbikes, were all on hand to open the new circuit.
“I am very pleased to accept the honorary membership from the BRDC, but perhaps not qualified to do so,” said His Royal Highness the Duke of York. “I am here because high performance engineering is a major contributor to the United Kingdom economy and that engineering prowess is regularly on display in the highest level of motor sport that takes place at Silvertsone. I am delighted to be here. The future, I hope, continues to be rosy, not only for Silverstone and motor sport, but for the UK’s high performance engineering sector.”
“This is a very proud day for Silverstone Circuit and the BRDC,” added Damon Hill. “The new section of track and improvements made elsewhere to the circuit are fantastic.
“These changes provide not only a stunning new driving challenge but will also lead to an enhanced spectator experience and provide great flexibility in terms of the different layouts that we can now use.
“Thanks and praise for the impressively quick construction work must go to the Silverstone management, led by Neil England and Richard Phillips, and the whole team involved. I would also like to thank His Royal Highness the Duke of York for taking the time to visit us today in his role as UK Special Representative for International Trade and Investment. His presence underlines the scale of the UK motor racing industry and its importance to the economy.
“Silverstone is a cornerstone of the success of the industry and the BRDC will continue to develop the circuit to ensure that Britain has a world class home for motor sport and related technology.”
For Richard Phillips, Managing Director of Silverstone Circuits Limited, today’s launch represents an important stepping stone in the redevelopment of Silverstone.
“This new Grand Prix track combined with the redevelopment of Stowe Circuit and facilities, that were also completed this year, are a very exciting part of our overall redevelopment plan,” he said.
“Work has already started on a new pit and paddock complex that will be completed in 2011 and we feel we are well on the way to being one of the best motor sport facilities in the world for competitors, organisers and spectators alike.
“2010 is an extremely important year for the circuit with Formula One being re-joined by MotoGP and World Superbikes on our calendar. It is going to be exciting to watch those races played out on this stunning new circuit.”
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