No place like Rome

Date published : 01 Sep 2010 - 17:30:40

Rome's hopes of staging a Formula One grand prix would appear to rest on the level of opposition from local residents.

A race through the streets of the Eternal City has long been on the agenda, potentially as early as 2012.

The logistics, however, of staging such an event are many, notably as mayor Gianni Alemanno needs the support of the populace of the EUR (Esposizione Universale Roma) district, south of the city.

Circuit designer Hermann Tilke has chosen that area due to the width of the roads in comparison to those in the city's heart.

Explaining the difficulties on Rai television, Alemanno said: "From 2012, or no later than 2013, a grand prix will take place in Rome.

"This will be the second race for Italy, because the race at Monza is guaranteed.

"But there are problems because we have to reach full agreement with the inhabitants of EUR.

"We have an agreement at international level. There are no certainties, but our promise is very solid."