The European Grand Prix held in Valencia is struggling to sell tickets despite a reduced capacity, which the organisers hoped would help the event to sell-out.
The street circuit has the ability to host 45,000 fans, but in 2011 that stood at 65,000 and before that 100,000. In 2008, it’s inaugural year, the event sold out.
Valencia’s sports and tourism minister Lola Johnson confirmed just 85 per cent of tickets, or 38,000, have been sold for the race in just over a weeks time with the majority, around 64 per cent, having been purchased by foreign spectators.
It’s thought the worsening economic situation in Spain is the biggest factor effecting attendance, with locals staying away from the event due to rising costs and unemployement which stands at almost 25 per cent.
The race is on the verge of agreeing a share deal with Barcelona for next season, meaning the next race likely to be held in Valencia won’t be until 2014.
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