Ecclestone claims credit for Silverstone’s transformation

Speaking ahead of the official launch of the Northamptonshire circuit’s new pit and paddock complex on Tuesday, Formula One’s 80-year-old chief executive said Britain finally had a venue to match the very best in the world.

“Thank God I persisted because now we’ll have a super circuit," Ecclestone said. “One that when people say ‘We are building a circuit; can we come and have a look at Silverstone?’ I can happily say, ‘Yes, build it like this’. Whereas before it was the last place I would encourage them to see."

After years spent at loggerheads with the British Racing Drivers’ Club, which owns the circuit, Ecclestone awarded Donington Park a 17-year deal to stage the British Grand Prix from 2010. When that fell through he threatened to take the race off the calendar entirely unless the BRDC met his demands.

The redevelopment of the circuit came after intense negotiations that led 18 months ago to a contract that should keep the grand prix at Silverstone until 2027.

The new complex, dubbed the Silverstone Wing, represents the second phase in a multi-million pound facelift for the former Second World War airfield. Last year a new section of track was added between Club and Abbey.

The Duke of Kent and the BRDC president, Damon Hill, will officially open the facility in a presentation ceremony attended by the great and good of motor sport at lunchtime on Tuesday. The Telegraph