Grapevine: Stewart Denies Brands Hatch Rumours

Sir Jackie Stewart today denied that he is involved in negotiations to buy the Brands Hatch circuit.

The London Evening Standard newspaper claimed that Stewart and former World Champion Nigel Mansell were being sounded out to front a £70 million (pounds) deal to buy the Kent circuit from owners Interpublic.

But Stewart, president of the British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC) who own Silverstone, denied the suggestions and said he has no intention of purchasing Brands Hatch.

"The story which speculates that I may be involved in the purchase of Brands Hatch with Nigel Mansell and others is totally wrong," Stewart said in a statement. "I have had no discussions with Nigel Mansell or any other party with a view to being involved in buying Brands Hatch, and I have no intention of being involved in such discussions if I am approached."

Stewart is currently in talks to get the British government to provide vital funding to help make £40 million (pounds) worth of improvements to Silverstone to ensure the British Grand Prix remains at the track.

Brands Hatch Circuits Limited, a branch of Interpublic, are selling Brands Hatch along with three other British tracks and they also pay Silverstone £8 million (pounds) a year to host the British Grand Prix.