The BBC's Andrew Benson reported, “Fresh doubt has been cast over whether next year's Grand Prix of America will go ahead as planned in New Jersey.” When asked if the New Jersey race would happen, F1 Management Chair Bernie Ecclestone said, "No. Definitely, no." He later said that “it would [happen] if the track were ready in time.” Race President Tom Cotter said that the track "was ahead of schedule” (BBC, 6/24). Ecclestone said, "I need to go and have another look. What I've seen up to now, and what's been going on, I'm not quite as sure as they are. If they can get it completed, and confirm to us it will be done, for sure they'll be on the calendar" (EUROSPORT.YAHOO.com, 6/23). Speed's Leigh Diffey said of Ecclestone's responses during interviews this weekend at the European Grand Prix, "He's an 82-year-old man and his answers ... were like an 82-year-old man. He was just gibbering. I think it's a classic Bernie Ecclestone stunt." Diffey said he spoke with F1 Grand Prix of America Exec Chair Leo Hindery and noted the “event is completely funded." Diffey: "They have put up the money, there are no financial worries. Bernie was talking about the road and resurfacing. That will be handled, not a problem” (“Wind Tunnel With Dave Despain,” Speed, 6/24).
ROOM TO GROW: In Akron, George Thomas reported officials from the USFL will visit the city this week "to discuss putting a franchise in the Rubber Bowl.” USFL President & CEO Jaime Cuadra and VP Fred Biletnikoff Jr. will meet “with representatives of the University of Akron, potential investors and the mayor’s office.” USFL Advisory Board member Jim Bailey said, “It’s the first trip the group is making to a particular city.” Cuadra and Biletnikoff are to meet “with members of the Greater Akron Chamber, which might be the key to finding investors, and eventually representatives of the mayor’s office” (AKRON BEACON JOURNAL, 6/23).
