According to Autoweek the club’s 6.59km (4.1 mile) track has already been inspected by F1 circuit designer Hermann Tilke.
The German architect, Hermann Tilke, who is responsible for designing all modern circuits in F1 has given the responsibility to stage F1 event at MMC. This Club is unique in a way that it is located in New York City and is just on a drive of 90 minutes from Manhattan while the nearest international airport is just on 10 minutes.

During last weeks, Herman Tilke visited MMC and after taking a long trip to the track he came into conclusion that MMC was the perfect place for next Grand Prix and F1 should give them a chance. He also stated that some expansions and minor modifications in track were also necessary. Though, Strauss is very happy on receiving the understanding letter but he is also very much worried about this deal as it is not so much easy.

A letter from the Monticello Motor Club president Ari Strauss reads:

A few months ago, [MMC chairman] Bill McMichael and I met with Bernie Ecclestone, President/CEO of Formula One Management (FOM), and discussed the terms for an exclusive 10-year United States Grand Prix to be hosted at MMC.

Shortly thereafter, Hermann Tilke, the chief engineer and circuit designer for F1, spent time at MMC and confirmed that our track and surrounding properties, with some expansion and minor track modifications, is an excellent location for a Grand Prix.

Since receiving a letter of understanding from FOM confirming their hope to bring the U.S. Grand Prix to Monticello, Bill and I have continued to secure the backing and support of local, state, and federal politicians and organizations.

Earlier this year Ecclestone said he didn’t intend to take the United States Grand Prix back to Indianapolis because “It’s all the wrong crowd and the wrong people.” Is a private motor club a better fit with his view of where F1 should be racing?

This line from the letter seems to suggest fans wishing to attend the race may have to become members of the club:

If F1 comes to Monticello, our intent is to preserve MMC as, first and foremost, a private country club. Obviously, demand will accelerate as well as the initiation fee for new members.

Or they might just be hoping the increased publicity for their club gains them new members.

Tags: monticello motor club, monticello