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The Singapore government does not do
things by halves. Having agreed to stage a night time Formula 1
street race, it has now decided to build a permanent circuit as well
to help boost the country's motor sports industry.
"The government has identified the
motor sports industry as a growth industry that will contribute to
sports development and the economy in Singapore," says Vivian
Balakrishnan, the minister for community development, youth and
sports. "In our discussions with the private sector, industry
players shared that the development of a permanent racetrack is
critical for us to develop a comprehensive motor sports industry."
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The facility would be a Grade 2 track -
not good enough for F1 - and there would be a deal for 30 years.
Other facilities will include a racing and driver training school
and a top level karting track. The circuit will be built on land by
the sea close to Changi Airport.
Balakrishnan also announced a
cross-government agency working group, led by the Singapore Sports
Council, to develop a comprehensive motorsports industry development
plan.
While all this is happening in Asia,
Silverstone continues to struggle on and has just announced plans to
host the next official FAI World Aerobatic Championship in 2009.
Flying Aces, the air sports rights management company, in
partnership with the British Aerobatic Association, was awarded the
rights to the event by the FAI, the air sports federation. |
