Report: Singapore no longer wants to host F1 - Eccelestone

This year's Singapore Grand Prix could be its last after F1 boss Bernie Eccelestone hinted that the country no longer wants to host Formula 1.

In an interview with German publication AutoMotor Und Sport, Eccelestone believes that Singapore will not be extending its contract with the motorsport. Eccelestone added that the country has become a destination hotspot from which many tourists or businesses flock to.

“Look at what we have done for Singapore. Yes, the Grand Prix has cost Singapore a lot of money, but we've also given them a lot of money. Singapore was suddenly more than just an airport to fly to or from somewhere. Now they believe they have reached their goal and they do not want a grand prix anymore,” said Eccelestone.

Singapore is not the only country that may pull the reins on Formula 1 next year. The fate of Grand Prixs in Germany, Brazil and Canada are also in question as details remain uncertain. However, Ecclestone said that they will do their best in keeping Canada and Brazil even if it's difficult. Germany, on the other hand is still on the fence as they cannot subsidize the race in Hockenheim, unlike in other countries.

Apart from that, Eccelestone also forsees the departure of constructors like Ferrari and reigning champion Mercedes-AMG.

“If we want the teams continue to pay as much money as we pay them straight, they would get too little. We need to look at it. It could happen to us that Mercedes and Ferrari run away. But honestly. If the races get better this may not be such a terrible vision. We have to expect the manufacturers to leave us anyway. Honda, BMW, Toyota. They go when Formula 1 has met the job for them. There is no gratitude,” added Ecclestone.

Source: AutoMotorUndSport