Silverstone loses British Grand Prix: report

LONDON (AFP) - Silverstone has been dropped as the host of the 2005 British Grand Prix, it was reported.
The track was not included on the provisional calendar for next year, according to a report by the BBC, although the decision has still to be ratified by the world council of the FIA, which meets on October 13.
Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone reportedly wanted 8.9 million pounds (13 million euros) from race organisers the British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC) to host the race.
BRDC president Jackie Stewart described the decision as "a disaster" and called on Ecclestone to rethink.
"We've gone as far as we can in making cutbacks in other areas to be able to afford the Grand Prix because we feel it is very important for the country as a whole," Stewart told the BBC.
"The gap between money being asked for (by Formula One) and what we can offer is comparatively small - in single figures of millions - but the amount is unaffordable.
"The British Racing Drivers Club cannot afford the British Grand Prix at any price."
If the FIA endorses the decision, then the race could be switched to either Brands Hatch or Donington, both of which have staged Formula One races in the past.