A new venue for the Australian grand prix beyond 2015 could be shaping up near Melbourne.<\/p>\n
Earlier this month, Calder Park owner Bob Jane denied a major redevelopment of his circuit was a move to become an alternative for current F1 host Albert Park.<\/p>\n
The Australian round, currently hosted on a mainly temporary circuit south of the city, made international headlines last week when an unprecedented $50m taxpayer’s loss for the 2010 edition was revealed.<\/p>\n
The local morning newspaper Herald Sun now reports that the state Victorian government, the sanctioning body CAMS, and Jane have signed an agreement.<\/p>\n
The report said the agreement might also be to investigate options for a F1-standard circuit at Avalon, about a 45 minute drive from Melbourne, adding that FIA officials were expected to visit Calder Park to assess the suitability of the site.<\/p>\n
“I know they are happy at Albert Park,” Jane, who organised non-championship F1 races at Calder Park prior to Adelaide joining the calendar in the 80s, said.<\/p>\n
“But in the future there has to be options, and at the moment there are none,” said the former touring car driver, whose circuit is about 25 kilometres from Melbourne.<\/p>\n
Australian Grand Prix Corporation chairman Ron Walker played down the news by insisting Albert Park is the best F1 venue for Melbourne because it “showcases the city”.<\/p>\n
And government spokesman Luke Enright said there are no plans to relocate the race.<\/p>\n
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