Bernie Ecclestone has for the first time cast doubt over whether or not the New York race, taking place in New Jersey, will go ahead as planned in 2013.
Ecclestone revealed that the organisers were yet to sign the necessary contracts, with the deadline having already past.
“I don’t know if it is going to happen,” he said. “I hope everything will be OK. They are sorting things out internally with some of their funds. If they are ready for 2013 we will have them.
“We are waiting for different parts of the contract to be agreed,” he added. “They are late.”
However, it’s expected Ecclestone will allow them some leeway given his efforts to secure a race near New York for many years.
Meanwhile, in response to the 81-year-old’s comments , the organisers have denied they are behind schedule for their debut race next year.
“We don’t comment on our contractual relationship with Formula 1 or its details,” said a spokesperson. “We are on track for a June 2013 race, with all course engineering and construction progressing precisely on schedule, a strong management team in place, and strong ongoing support from New Jersey, New York City and the local communities involved. We are very confident that the 2013 F1 Grand Prix of America will be a great event.”
