British Grand Prix thrown lifeline
 |  David Coulthard in action during the 2004 British Grand Prix at Silverstone |
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LONDON, England -- The British Grand Prix at Silverstone is to be included on Formula One's draft 2005 calendar when it is published on Wednesday, according to sources close to the negotiations.
Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone is understood to be offering a deal for next year followed by further negotiations for the following six years.
But the British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC), who own Silverstone, are looking for a two-year deal followed by talks on the following five years.
British sports minister Richard Caborn has been working behind the scenes to bring the BRDC and F1 together.
It is understood the deal will not involve Brand Synergy, the company who boast former world champion Nigel Mansell as one of their backers and who have been trying to become involved with hosting the grand prix.
Caborn said: "I am very hopeful that the British Grand Prix will be on the calendar for next year even though it may be subject to contract.
"I am also hopeful that we will get a two-year deal which will allow us to sit down and plan to realise the full potential of the Silverstone estate.
"I would very much welcome its inclusion as it would be a major step in the right direction."
The Government have a scheme in place to transform Silverstone by upgrading the track, building a state-of-the-art wind tunnel and developing an innovation park for motor sport-related businesses.
Other races in France and San Marino are also expected to be included on Wednesday's draft calendar, subject to conditions being met.
World governing body the FIA will wait until December to publish a final calendar, but Formula One's powerbrokers are united in their desire to see Silverstone remain on the calendar.
