Jenson Button hails Silverstone innovation, Bernie Ecclestone once again being critical – Formula 1
McLaren-Mercedes’ driver Jenson Button has praised the new Silverstone pits and paddock areas.
Button stated that Silverstone has done a great job for not only the Formula 1 world but also other motorsports.
Formula 1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone not only did miss the opening ceremony of Silverstone, but also criticised the innovations by saying that the same effort should have been done a long time ago.
The British driver Button attended the opening ceremony of the pits and said, “I'm really pleased with what I've seen. They've done a fabulous job, this place is enormous. This is what was needed, and it's certainly going to help with the show for this year's
British Grand Prix.”
He further added, “The whole of the United Kingdom, and whoever is a fan of motor racing, should be very proud of this place.”
The innovations to the Silverstone circuit worth £27 million were done after a multi-year contract was signed by the Formula 1 officials. The other celebrities that attended the ceremony include Red Bull boss Christian Horner and drivers Mark Webber, Nigel
Mansell and David Coulthard. From the two-wheeler category, seven-time world champion Valentino Rossi joined the party.
The one man who missed the show was none other than Bernie. In a statement to Silverstone officials, the 80-year-old apologised for his absence but said that he has gone through the innovations and really admires the work.
However, Bernie could not help himself from criticising the track owners. He said, “It's a great shame it couldn't have been completed 10 years ago - but well done Silverstone.”
Furthermore, he added that Silverstone’s recent investment and interest in their track will attract more motorsport events. Bernie added that Silverstone will now become one of the greatest tracks of all times.
Red Bull driver Mark Webber was the first one to drive in front of the media along the new pit way.
The Formula 1 Silverstone race will take place on July 10, 2011.
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