> Bernie Ecclestone in new Silverstone threat

Formula 1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone has suggested that Britain and France may have to “share” their place on the world championship calendar to make way for the sport’s expansion into new markets.

Ecclestone recently signed a long-term deal with South Korea to host F1 from 2010, and also plans to bring India into the fold the same year.

But with few in the sport enthusiastic about increasing the total number of races, it seems likely that the European portion of the calendar will be scaled back in the future.

In an interview with the Bloomberg news agency, Ecclestone claimed the French GP organisers “are happy” to alternate with Silverstone, but “as for the British race, I don’t know what they want and I’m not sure they do”.

The 76-year-old said negotiations over the Indian event are “far down the line” and that a venue had been agreed upon – though he declined to reveal where it will be.

“India is a country that is probably going to grow quicker than China,” he added.

“We had to make sure we found the right place in India and we have.”

Silverstone owners the British Racing Drivers Club have a contract to stage the British GP for the next three years, so its place on the calendar is presumably secure until then.

Ecclestone also categorically ruled out the possibility of the San Marino GP being reinstated on the 2007 schedule.

Delays over a promised upgrade to the pits/paddock complex and arguments over tobacco advertising have left Imola on the sidelines.

“It’s bye bye to San Marino,” Ecclestone said.