Todt: British Grand Prix is part of motorsport history

Sky F1 report that Silverstone management could trigger a break clause to extract themselves from hosting the grand prix beyond next year, amid suggestions that money (or lack thereof) is yet again the deal-breaker.

But Todt is adamant the race is important for the Formula 1, "I am always surprised because I see so much negativity, I want positivity and the British Grand Prix is part of the history of motorsport. So I am very optimistic about that."

"You have an amazing passion for motorsport in the UK, you have the tradition. You have a lot of great events so we should be very optimistic - but still there are points to address and all that needs to be addressed should be addressed."

Although Formula 1 are intent on taking the sport to alternative pastures, there is a realisation that there are a core of blue ribbon events that the sport needs to retain - Silverstone high up on that list

Commercial chief Sean Bratches told Sky F1 that he is keen to see a deal made, "We are very hopeful. There has not been a lot of change in terms of the last time we spoke."

"We are having discussions and conversations around the business terms and both genuinely trying to get a deal done. Silverstone - it speaks for itself - it's an extraordinary brand. It's the home of the first Grand Prix," acknowledged Bratches.