Mexico is not quite ready to confirm the country’s return to the formula one calendar, key figure Carlos Slim has revealed.
We reported a month ago that the Hermanos Rodriguez circuit in Mexico City, the scene of the last Mexican grand prix in 1992, is being lined up to host formula one again in 2013, replacing Valencia.
The original report in Spanish sports newspaper Marca said the race will be backed by many of Sauber driver Sergio Perez’s sponsors, including billionaire Slim.
Telmex’s Slim, however, told Marca this week that he cannot confirm the news.
"There are many variables to make a grand prix a reality," he insisted.
"We still need a few more things before we come to a formal proposal and everything takes its time. Hopefully it can be a reality soon."
But Slim agreed that Mexico has proved it deserves a place on the calendar, given the amount of tickets for the forthcoming US grand prix that have been bought by Mexicans.
And amid the economic troubles elsewhere, Slim argued it is a "great time" for Mexico, which has "all the characteristics to (host) large events".
"We are working on a formal proposal," he reiterated. "As far as I know everything is being done in optimal time."