Mansell: Ecclestone can save Silverstone

Silverstone's deal to host the race only lasts until 2009 and contract renewal discussions are expected to be a fraught affair, with Ecclestone having made it clear several times in the past that he wants the circuit to undergo a major revamp.

But speaking to The Daily Telegraph, Mansell has suggested that the best solution would be for Ecclestone to buy the track and sort the facilities out for himself.

"I'll say something very strange. I think it would be wonderful if Bernie Ecclestone ended up buying the whole thing and doing something very special at Silverstone," said Mansell.

"He is the only person who could afford to do that. It would cost a lot of money but Bernie is the godfather of motor sport."

Mansell added: "The power of Bernie and the influence of Bernie is absolute. His success has been instrumental to the sport. He's a great businessman.

"Silverstone have been their own biggest enemy by not investing in the infrastructure. It should be a shop window for motor sport worldwide."