Silverstone GP Confirmed for April 23

The Motor Sports Association has moved to quash persistent rumours that the British Grand Prix could yet return to its customary summer date during July.

The recent release of the FIA Formula One World Championship calendar for the 2000 season surprised everyone, including it seems race hosts Silverstone, when it showed the British round of the series taking place on Sunday April 23.

Although an option to swap the date with the organisers in either Austria or Spain was discussed, neither has proven able to accommodate the request at such notice. It appears Austrian race officials were keen to change their scheduled July 16 date following fears of summer rain. However a straight swap with Silverstone would have brought the very real threat of late snow hitting the Tyrolian venue. MF