F1: Bernie Ecclestone plays down Iran's F1 chances

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From GMM

Bernie Ecclestone has played down reports formula one could be headed to Iran in the near future.

Local media reports this week revealed that officials are building a $85 million track south of capital Tehran, with construction to "follow all F1 standards".

A subsequent media release clarified that the track will only be seeking Grade 2 certification by the FIA initially, which is not sufficient to host a grand prix.

But arguably the biggest obstacle is the country itself, with Telegraph correspondent Tom Cary arguing that "it is difficult to conceive of a less likely venue" for F1.

The Daily Express ' Bob McKenzie agreed that the thought of an Iranian grand prix "under the present repressive regime" is "bizarre".

F1 chief executive Ecclestone said: "We have three or four countries already waiting for a race. I don't think Iran is top of our list."