Legal proceedings issued by the owners of Donington Park, the venue for the British Formula One grand prix from 2010, against the circuit’s operators has endangered the future of the race.

The International Herald Tribune newspaper reports that Wheatcroft & Son, the owners, issued proceedings at Derby County Court seeking £2.5 million in unpaid rent and for forfeiture of the circuit lease, from Donington Ventures, the operator. Donington Ventures occupies the circuit on a 150-year lease, which began in January 2007.

In an interview with Autosport.com, Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone said he was saddened but not surprised at the latest development, and pointed to a lack of commitment in Britain to hosting the race compared to other countries.

“I've been saying it for a long time: we just don't make the effort,” he said.

Source: Sport Business International