Stewart Backs Traffic Improvements at Silverstone

Three-time World Champion Jackie Stewart has thrown more support behind the British Grand Prix and heaped praise on race organisers Octagon for their efforts to improve the Silverstone circuit and keep the race on the 2002 calendar.

Stewart, who is chairman of the British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC), who in turn own Silverstone, believes it would be a travesty for the FIA to ditch the race from the calendar after so much effort has been put in to improve the event.

"Over the past two weeks we have seen local Councils and Police forces and many government agencies and departments work closely to ensure that by the British Grand Prix 2002 major traffic concerns will be a thing of the past," said Stewart.

"It is tremendous to see everyone back such an exciting and much-needed stimulus to our sport. The BRDC is delighted to see such importance placed on benefiting public access and facilities."

Stewart also praised Octagon for their announcement on Monday of a revised Masterplan for the Northamptonshire track. He suggested that their decision to invest heavily in the circuit should swing the FIA's vote at the crucial decision meeting on Friday.

"That £10.6 million (Pounds) worth of commitment is a clear vote of confidence in the British Grand Prix," he said.