[Raceboy]

Belgian GP under threat

F1 boss sends warning to Belgian government

Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone has sent a warning to the Belgian government that Spa-Francorchamp's Grand Prix could be axed if it imposes a nationwide tobacco advertising ban.

According to this week's AUTOSPORT magazine, Ecclestone has made it clear that a planned ban from 2003 could mean the removal of F1's most celebrated circuit from the calendar. A similar dispute put the 2000 race under threat.

"We will not necessarily hold a Belgian GP in 2003," said Ecclestone. "It is not out of the question, despite the track usually being included on the calendar.

"Belgium must adopt the same stance as the rest of Europe, where tobacco advertising is permitted until 2006. We cannot make exceptions for certain organisers."

The San Marino Grand Prix is another long-established event that needs the help of its national government to secure its future. The organisers of the Imola race are calling on financial assistance from the Italian government, just as Silverstone bosses are from the British government.

For more details, see this week's AUTOSPORT magazine, on sale tomorrow (Thursday).