Stewart Praises British GP Organisation

Former World Champion Sir Jackie Stewart believes there is a bright future ahead for the British Grand Prix despite Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone labelling the Silverstone event to a "country fair."

Stewart, as president of the British Racing Drivers' Club, worked closely with Octagon Motorsports chief executive Rob Bain, who resigned after Ecclestone's comments, and believes improvements made to the circuit will assure the future of Britain's top motorsport attraction.

Stewart also expressed his surprise that more praise had not been given to those behind the changes made at the Northamptonshire circuit.

"Everybody had done such a good job and it is a shame that we could not give everyone more of a pat on the back rather than criticism," Stewart told Radio 5 Live. "The master plan for Silverstone to create a centre of excellence is on course - we have made such big steps forward.

"Bernie Ecclestone himself has invested with the BRDC and Octagon to make this a centre of excellence in motorsports."

It has been suggested that Bain had received a letter from the FIA banning him from the paddock for the 2003 British Grand Prix over a breach of protocol which saw him enter the Media Centre, which is not allowed as a promoter.

Stewart also expressed his disappointment at Bain's decision to quit, and said that he believes the 37-year-old's departure was not caused exclusively by Ecclestone's criticism.

"I don't think that's what tipped the balance," he said. "I think he made up his mind that this was something he had been in for long enough. I understand it's a decision he has made and I wish him well, but I thought we worked pretty well as a team."