Upstate New York track eyeing F1 race

Just a few weeks after a bid to hold a race in New Jersey was scuppered when the mayor ruled it out, it has been revealed that talks are underway for a race at the venue that is located at the foot of the Catskill Mountains.

American publication Autoweek has published a letter from Ari Strauss, the president of the Monticello Motor Club, who talks about meeting F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone and having hosted F1 track architect Hermann Tilke at the venue.

In the letter, Strauss says: "A few months ago, [MMC chairman] Bill McMichael and I met with Bernie Ecclestone, President/CEO of Formula One Management (FOM), and discussed the terms for an exclusive 10-year United States Grand Prix to be hosted at MMC.

"Shortly thereafter, Hermann Tilke, the chief engineer and circuit designer for F1, spent time at MMC and confirmed that our track and surrounding properties, with some expansion and minor track modifications, is an excellent location for a Grand Prix

"Since receiving a letter of understanding from FOM confirming their hope to bring the U.S. Grand Prix to Monticello, Bill and I have continued to secure the backing and support of local, state, and federal politicians and organizations."

Despite the hopes expressed by Ecclestone, Strauss does admit that it is far from certain an F1 deal can be pulled off.

"Securing F1 is like winning the Olympics, competition is fierce, and this is not a done deal," he added. "While the prospect of F1 at MMC is exciting, we remain focused on our core business: the club and its members."

The Monticello venue is 4.1 miles long, and features 22 corners.