Hockenheim is getting closer to Formula 1

Silverstone's scheduled races in July are likely to fail

The UK has taken the most severe measures in the battle with COVID-19, and this may cancel Liberty Media's preliminary plans for Silverstone to have two races at the beginning of the Formula 1 season. Negotiations are underway to make exceptions for the championship. and if they do not complete successfully, the British Grand Prix will fail.

The most likely replacement will be Hockenheim. The German track was left without a place in the original calendar for 2020, but the crisis and the need to form a strong European start of the season will probably return it to Formula 1.

“It is true that negotiations with Formula 1 are ongoing,” Hockenheim managing director Jörn Teske told Motorsport.com. "We've gone from talking to getting to the details."

“We are discussing the conditions under which this will be possible. How can we get approval, in what infection situation, when and how the track is free. Of course, we also discuss economic conditions. These are important points. “

The position of the British government has high hopes for Hockenheim, but, according to Teske, the fate of the German Grand Prix does not depend on the upcoming development of the situation on the island.

“This is more of a political decision. Whether an exception will be made under quarantine. England can influence the European phase of the calendar, and therefore, us. ”

"However, this does not necessarily mean that we automatically leave the game if the Grand Prix of Great Britain."

Teske added that Hockenheim would meet Formula 1, but only if there was a financial benefit from it. The competition will be held behind closed doors, so the only scenario for Liberty Media is to provide it financially.

“We cannot take an economic risk with the organization of a Formula 1 race. We continue to stand firmly behind this. I would even be more extreme. In such a year we must earn money. There is no other way,” Teske is categorical.

The fate of the German Grand Prix will probably become clear until the end of the week, when the British government is expected to make a decision on Silverstone.