Grapevine: Briatore Wants F1 Run in New York

Giancarlo Fisichella thrilled his home fans with a driving display around the Circus Maximus, as part of Renault's Formula One roadshow. And, despite the poor weather conditions, around 25,000 spectators turned up for the event.

Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport about the success of the latest venture, Briatore re-iterated his belief that it was important F1 was taken to the fans - and claimed his dream was to host an event in New York.

"Formula One needs to get closer to the people," said Briatore. "In the circuits there are barriers and walls which keep the spectators away, so days like  these are important, besides being very difficult to organise.

"If it wasn't for the collaboration of the city of Rome, this wouldn't have been possible. My dream is to have a road show on the streets of New York."

Fisichella added: "It's always been my dream to run through the streets of Rome on an F1 car, and I felt excited even though the rain spoiled the atmosphere.

"Formula One never comes here, so I'm happy to let the citizens of Rome experience it. Great things can be done here too."