Fresh talks for New York Formula 1 race

Friday, 5 August 2011 00:01 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Bernie Ecclestone’s desire to see a second race in the United States could yet be realised after fresh talks emerged about hosting a street race in New Jersey.

AUTOSPORT revealed in July that F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone was seriously considering a second F1 race in New York, having already signed a deal to race at Austin, Texas.

On Tuesday, the Mayors of Weehawken and West New York revealed that they are in the preliminary stages of talks with a group of investors, led by former YES TV Network executive Leo Hindery Jr., to hold a grand prix in the area from as early as 2013.

One proposed venue is to run the race along the banks of the Hudson River, using the waterfront and the iconic Manhattan skyline to create a spectacular backdrop.

Weehawken Mayor Richard Turner and West New York Mayor Felix Roque said in a joint statement that they were investigating the feasibility, and potential economic gains, of hosting an F1 street race in New Jersey.

“In these uncertain economic times when every direct and indirect revenue source is vital, our own Formula One race could be a very positive boost to our citizens,” the statement read.

“This said, we need to ensure that the financial benefits from the privilege of having these races in our towns are equitably shared and that no tax dollars are used.

“The investor group has already told us that our towns would be substantially compensated annually.”

In recent years there have been several failed attempts to host a race in the US, notably in 2010 when a proposed event at Liberty State Park was soon withdrawn amid public protests. (www.autosport.com)