Is Hockenheim saying goodbye to Formula 1?

The F1 world experienced its last race at the Hockenheim circuit in Germany last year. The city council decided on Tuesday evening not to renew ties with Formula 1 due to financial issues.

The city experienced a loss of 6 million euros in 2008 after hosting the Formula 1 Grand Prix. The city owns 94% of the track and is no longer willing to invest in the sport.

Hockenheim held its first Formula 1 race in 1970, and the last contract was for hosting a race every two years alternating with the Nürburgring circuit.

However, Hockenheim could remain in the spotlight as the latest rumor suggests the possible arrival of the FOTA championship on this circuit as early as 2010.

It is understood that Bernie Ecclestone is negotiating clauses for 2010, the final year of the contract between the circuit and F1.

Ecclestone wrote to the organizers, indicating that he is open to talks about the future of the race. The German GP is important since Mercedes-Benz and BMW are at home, as well as five drivers in the championship.

The Nurburgring is not financially equipped to host a race every year.

Günther Oettinger, Prime Minister of Baden-Württemberg, the region that hosts Hockenheim, plans to meet with Ecclestone in the coming months. This gives some hope of seeing Hockenheim again in the fairly near future, despite the City Council’s decision.