Rome GP rumors heat up
The Italian capital's sports councillor Allessandro Cochi has revealed "very frequent contacts and visits by FIA officials".
"The possibility of running a grand prix in Rome in 2012 is ever more feasible," he is quoted as saying by the news agency ANSA.
While Bernie Ecclestone is reportedly excited at the prospect, FIA president Max Mosley and Ferrari's Luca di Montezemolo have been cooler about considering a full-time calendar spot for Rome.
But ANSA claims that the possibility of a one-off event is now gaining strength, despite promoter Maurizio Flammini wanting a multi-year agreement.
"I've spoken to (F1 chief executive) Bernie and if, as it appears, the costs can be totally borne by private investors, I think it would be interesting to make an in-depth assessment of its feasibility," Montezemolo said.
Another Italian, Renault team boss Flavio Briatore, heralds the idea as "fantastic", predicting a Rome GP would be "spectacular".
Rome mayor Gianni Alemanno, however, insists that the chequered flag is not set to wave quite yet.
"The negotiations are complicated, almost as complicated as organising an Olympic Games," he said.
02/26/09 (GMM) Max Mosley will tour the EUR district of the city of Rome, amid rising speculation a street grand prix in the Italian capital is a real probability.
Corriere dello Sport, a Rome based sports daily, said the FIA president's visit – while he is in the area on other business – is scheduled for next week.
An inaugural grand prix in the area has been touted for 2011 or 2012, with the reported backing of F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone as well as the mayor of Rome Gianni Alemanno.
It is suggested that Mosley, 68, will meet with prospective promoter Maurizio Flammini during his visit, as well as with local authorities.