BRDC Members Approve British GP Agreement

Silverstone will stage the British Grand Prix for the next 16 years, the track's owners said on Monday.

An extraordinary general meeting of the British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC) voted unanimously on Monday in favour of an agreement between the BRDC and Octagon, owners of the rival Brands Hatch track.

Brands Hatch own the rights to host the grand prix from 2002 to 2017 but the circuit south of London had problems with planning permission to bring it up to standard, and agreed to lease the hosting rights to Silverstone, central England.

Silverstone came under severe criticism when this year's event, unusually taking place in April, was marred by heavy rain which caused havoc as car parks were closed and fans turned away. The 2001 race has been moved back to July at Silverstone.

As part of the deal with Octagon, the Silverstone circuit will be revamped, improving the pits, access by road and parking facilities.

"The recommendation accepted by the membership has secured the future of the club, the Silverstone circuit as a premier international track and the British F1 Grand Prix," said former driver Martin Brundle, chairman of the BRDC.