Australian GP must be a night race

Bernie Ecclestone has warned the Melbourne authorities that the city's Formula One race is under threat unless the event becomes a night race.

In an interview with the Sunday Herald Sun newspaper, Ecclestone reiterated his belief that the Australian Grand Prix should be held at a more accessible time for European audiences, and said that the night race issue was critical to contract talks.

Melbourne's current deal to host the Australian GP expires after 2010.

"When the contract comes up, we have to have a look and see exactly what we will be doing with Melbourne," Ecclestone said.

"Unless they can come up with something satisfactory, I'm pretty sure we wouldn't be able to continue there.

"I would like to make sure we can watch (the race) in Europe and other parts of the world at a respectable time rather than having to get up at three or four in the morning.

"(Australian GP boss) Ron (Walker) is not stupid and he knows exactly what is at stake."

A spokesman for Victoria's Tourism Minister Tim Holding said that formal discussions about both the contract extension and the night race issue had not yet commenced.

"We strongly support the race," the spokesman told the Sunday Herald Sun.

"The contract runs until 2010, but we haven't begun negotiating that yet. And a night Grand Prix has never been formally proposed.

"Ultimately the Victorian Government will decide what is best for Melbourne."

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Although I disagree with Bernie's proposals, they do make sense. Night races for Grand Prixs that are in the Southern Hemisphere allow for European telecasts during the day, which would surely mean increased numbers in terms of television ratings. This could also bring in more sponsors, which all goes towards increasing the profits for F1. Like I already said though, I still think the proposals are crap.

Although I disagree with Bernie's proposals, they do make sense. Night races for Grand Prixs that are in the Southern Hemisphere allow for European telecasts during the day, which would surely mean increased numbers in terms of television ratings. This could also bring in more sponsors, which all goes towards increasing the profits for F1. Like I already said though, I still think the proposals are crap.

wombat26

When there is money involved, Bernie is always on the scene!

I live in the West coast in the U.S. unless it's Brazil, U.S, or Canada I either have to stay up os wake up real early...but If I can do that why not europeans..or wait money I forgot.....

Well the next four F1 races will be shown on Fox(2 live and 2 pre-recorded)so meh