Donington not concerned by F1 crisis

The Leicestershire track has a long-term deal to host the British Grand Prix from 2010, but requires a multi-million pound rebuild ready for the event. The economic downturn cost Donington its intended funding source, and work is underway to secure replacement finance.

Although Gillett admitted that the uncertainty over F1's future had not made this project any easier, he said it was not an insurmountable hurdle.

"It's another speed bump, but you will see Donington has hit enough speed bumps and we are adept at getting over them and pushing forward," Gillett told BBC Radio Five Live.

"I wouldn't say it's hit the buffers. It's causing a bit of a slow down, but the people we're dealing with are intelligent people. They read the news and see it for what it is."

When asked if he would seek to renegotiate Donington's contract with Bernie Ecclestone in the event of F1 losing the FOTA teams and a rival series starting, Gillett replied: "I would have the right to a conversation with Bernie."

Although Ecclestone has softened his stance towards Silverstone - suggesting this weekend that the current venue could step in if Donington is not ready in 2010 - today's race is currently set to be the Northamptonshire track's F1 swansong.

Many drivers have expressed their sadness at the loss of Silverstone this weekend, but Gillett is certain that they will enjoy Donington just as much.

"Donington will provide a different challenge and it's new," he said. "A lot of them have grown up only knowing Silverstone so of course there will be some sadness, but there's no doubt that after five years of Donington Park they'll be saying how much they like it."