Greece paves the way for F1 track

Rev · 22nd January 2007, 04:45

Quote:

Greece paves the way for F1 track
Posted on 21 January 2007 - 08:15

Greece's plans to host Formula One races moved closer to completion this week with the signature of a decree setting out minimum track requirements, the Greek Automobile Club (ELPA) said on Saturday.

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The decree signed by Greek President Karolos Papoulias will enable investors to claim support funding from the Greek development ministry, said ELPA chairman Vassilis Despotopoulos.

"This decree enables investors to build something and subsequently apply for funding. It is not specifically linked to Formula One racing, but it facilitates... those wishing to build Formula One tracks," he told AFP.

Greek developers have been clamouring for a local Formula One track for decades, arguing that a Grand Prix would enhance Greece's appeal to visitors and boost tourism, which is a leading source of national income. Interest in Greece rose further following the successful debut of a course in neighbouring Turkey in 2005.

"I've personally been involved in this debate since 1968," Despotopoulos said, adding that a "basic" track would cost €60-€80 million and require two years to complete.

Hosts of the annual Acropolis Rally, a WRC event, ELPA have been working on a project to create a Formula One track near Orchomenos, a town of 5 000 people some 120 kilometres northwest of Athens, on 1 400 square metres of land allocated by the Greek state in 1992.

"We've been struggling on this project ever since," Despotopoulos said, noting that until now the Greek authorities were unwilling to devote funds to upgrading the road network around the small town.

The presidential decree has not been made public, but Eleftherotypia daily on Friday reported that it sets a race track size between 3.5 km and eight kilometres, and a maximum distance of 80 kilometres from hotel accommodation of at least 2 000 beds.

http://www.superwheels.co.za/default...heels/formula1

skylinearth · 22nd January 2007, 11:38

Great news

skylinearth · 23rd January 2007, 18:44

And Patra is a very nice choice in my opinion.

MetroGuardian · 24th January 2007, 17:43

Indeed, Patra is a good choice, and this could boost the city economy!

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