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Why timeshare race deals are not a good idea

The fees to host grands prix have forced countries like Germany to alternate their national race between circuits, and others look set to follow suit. Dieter Rencken looks at the shortfalls of a rotating calendar

What is it about Formula 1's obsession with timeshare race hosting deals?

This column has consistently argued against such a structure on the basis that a race every two years (or even three if the proposed plan to rotate the Nurburgring, Hockenheim and Spa-Francorchamps had come to fruition) does not permit race promoters to properly develop their facilities, with hosting communities also suffering due to the financial peaks and troughs inherent in such arrangements.

The two German circuits entered into 'odds and evens' contracts with Formula One Management, with Hockenheim holding the even cards (2010/'12/'14/'16/'18) and the circuit in the Eifel Mountains committing to odd years (2009/'11/'13/'15/'17). Both stressed as the time that there were no mutual obligations should the one or other be in breach, so Hockenheim is under no obligation to step in should the Nurburgring default, or vice-versa.

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