A cloud hanging over the future of Monza’s iconic Italian grand prix is growing darker.
The latest ominous development is on the political front, where on Wednesday it emerged that a move to exempt the fabled Autodromo Nazionale from new laws had failed.
The news will reportedly cost Monza EUR 20 million in tax exemptions.
According to the local Il Cittadino newspaper, politician Paolo Grimaldi is furious.
"We did not ask for a cent, only that they would ratify something bureaucratic," he said. "It is intolerable that the government is against the Italian grand prix."
Circuit operator Sias’ chief Andrea dell’Orto agreed: "It is a very serious matter, particularly as it was an amendment without cost.
"So now I will ask directly for a meeting with (Italian prime minister Matteo) Renzi," he is quoted by Milan’s Il Giorno.