Construction halted on Texas circuit in F1 dispute
Added on Wednesday, November 16th, 2011 by Carole Nash Editor
Construction halted on Texas circuit in F1 dispute
Construction at the new Circuit of The Americas has been halted, casting doubt over the future of the 2013 MotoGP Texas Grand Prix.
Workers have downed tools at the new, purpose built circuit in Austin, Texas, as a contractual dispute rages between circuit owners and Formula One officials.
Owners say that they have yet to receive contracts from F1 organisers, claiming: “The failure to deliver race contracts gives us great concern.”
“Local businesses, fans and the State of Texas are counting on us,” added Red McCombs, a founding group partner.
In a separate announcement, it was confirmed that public funds would not be used to pay for the development of the track.
“Let me state clearly: We have not paid out any money for the Formula 1 event,” said Susan Combs from Texas Public Accounts.
“The only dollars that can be spent on the United States Grand Prix are tax revenues attributable to the successful running of a race. The state of Texas will not be paying any funds in advance of the event.”
The new circuit is due to host the American Grand Prix next season, with MotoGP taking place at the circuit the following year.
