Adelaide’s City Council is making enquiries with the South Australian State Government to determine if the Australian Grand Prix could make a return to the city.
Local newspaper The Advertiser is under the impression that the council has agreed on their stance regarding the matter, and are currently compiling a written statement addressed the government asking them to consider the possibility that the race could be transferred back.
Adelaide hosted the Australian Grand Prix around its streets from the first in 1985 until 1995; it transferred to Melbourne in 1996 where it has been run ever since. Adelaide is now the host of V8 Supercars that compete around a shortened circuit.
“We’d just like to see the State Government take the steps to see if it is viable and whether a pitch could be made,” Councillor Alex Antic was quoted by The Advertiser.
The idea has already been criticised by Tourism Minister Leon Bignell, who was less than polite in his comments about the council members.
“How about they put in some money so we can get the grandstands up a bit quicker, which will make their ratepayers happy?” he said.
“Look at Bathurst; their council put in $6 million. These clowns put in $50,000 and charge us $100,000. They are big on complaining but not putting their hands in their pockets.
“We’re not interested in it [hosting the Grand Prix again].”
Melbourne is contracted to host the Australian Grand Prix until 2023.
