Hockenheim’s future as F1 venue fades
The circuit alternates running the annual formula one race with the Nurburgring, but Hockenheim mayor Dieter Gummer has said the situation is "no longer justifiable" beyond 2010 due to continuing losses.
Williams driver and German-born Nico Rosberg is quoted as saying by the news agency SID: "That is inconceivable. Germany must have a formula one race.
"Mercedes and BMW have to make it happen, or it is up to Bernie Ecclestone to require lower fees," he added.
But Haug, long in charge of Mercedes' involvement with McLaren, answered: "That is not our job. A football player doesn't build the football field."
BMW-Sauber team boss Mario Theissen adds: "For us as car manufacturers, a formula one race in Germany is important. It is a home event for us that we look forward to, as do many of our supporters."
09/12/08 (GMM) The future of the German grand prix at Hockenheim does not look bright, the town's major Dieter Gummer has admitted.
He told the Mannheimer Morgen newspaper that, after recording a loss of more than 5 million euros when the event was run earlier this year, the circuit may not be able to continue alternating the hosting rights with fellow German venue Nurburgring beyond 2010.
"Keeping formula one past 2010 is economically no longer justifiable in the present circumstances," Gummer said.
The town of Hockenheim owns 94 per cent of the Hockenheimring.