What Bernie Ecclestone wants, Bernie Ecclestone gets. This dictum has been proved repeatedly in Formula 1 as the British businessperson, despite beings 81 years of age, remains the man who pulls the string in F1. Ecclestone wanted Formula 1 to return to the United States. His first attempt, a few years back, at the Indianapolis circuit was short-lived. The U.S. is very important to Ecclestone though, so he signed a deal with the Circuits of America for a race to be held in 2012 at a new track in Austin, Texas. The inclusion of the race in the 2012 F1 calendar was in doubt until the last moment, due to financing problems faced by the organizers. Ecclestone issued an ultimatum, which he extended until today’s World Motor Sport Council meeting.
As it turns out, the calendar remains unchanged, which means that the 10-year deal remains in place and the Austin race will take place as originally planned.
Red McCombs, chairman of McCombs Enterprises and founding partner of the Circuit of Americas, said: “Mr. Ecclestone received his check today. We want to thank the fans supporting us, the local officials and businesses that have encouraged us, the State of Texas, Circuit of America’s staff and Bernie himself.”
