Minister says Monza future secure and untouchable

The immediate future of the Italian Grand Prix is secure, claims the Lombardy minister Antonio Rossi, rejecting reports that historic Monza could be the victim as Bernie Ecclestone seeks to further expand the Formula 1 calendar beyond Europe.

"The Formula 1 Grand Prix in Monza is untouchable," he is quoted by Tuttosport.

"Not only because it is an engine for the economy of Brianza, but also because of Expo 2015," said Rossi.

Indeed, he said the Autodromo Nazionale, in the Villa Reale park, will play a role as Milan hosts the next Universal Exposition, Expo 2015. (GMM.)

Subbed by AJN.