20-Jul-09: Henry Surtees Dies After F2 Accident

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Today is the 20th July 2009, and this is F1 Minute.

It was a quiet news weekend, which turned into a terrible news weekend, as we learned that Henry Surtees, son of former F1 Champion John Surtees, died after an accident during the F2 race at Brands Hatch. John says: “The world beckoned and he was thriving on the freedom to concentrate on his motorsport. Most importantly, he was a nice person and a loving son. He will be deeply missed.” Naturally, our thoughts are with the Surtees family at this difficult time.

Also over the weekend, Bernie Ecclestone had some more thoughts on the future of the British Grand Prix, offering up the suggestion that Silverstone and Donington could share the race, as the German GP has for the last few years. President of the BRDC, Damon Hill, says: “I think it’s an insult. It’s another absurd step to try and squeeze as much profit and as much benefit for the commercial rights-holder. It’s not a long-term strategy.” He also added that he doubts “the Donington project is viable”.

That’s all for now, please join me again tomorrow for another F1 Minute.

16-Jun-08: Ecclestone Comes Clean About Breakaway Rumours

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It’s the 16^th June 2008, and you’re listening to F1 Minute.

Bernie Ecclestone has spoken out about those persistent rumours that the teams could breakaway and form their own motorsport series. After the Mosley scandal has left the political side of the sport in turmoil, Bernie has said that he needs to say everything is fine to keep the sponsors happy, but in fact, he has no control. Bernie says that what the teams need is a renewed Concorde Agreement, but Mosley isn’t interested. And the most telling quote from Ecclestone was this: “The teams can do what they like.”

Former F1 champion John Surtees, who took the title in 1964, is being honoured by the Queen of England. He will receive an Order of the British Empire in recognition of his services to motorsport and to charity.

Finally today, preparation for France is already beginning, with BMW boss Mario Theissen stating they will not be changing their goals despite the win in Canada, and Lewis Hamilton saying he will still have a good race even though he’s starting ten places back.

That’s all for today, join me tomorrow for another F1 Minute.