Manfeild awarded Grand Prix for three more years

Media Release

Thursday 27 February 2014

Manfeild awarded Grand Prix for three more years

Manawatu’s Manfeild Park race circuit has been granted hosting rights for the New Zealand Grand Prix (NZGP) for the next three years, from 2015 to 2017.

Eight circuits were invited to submit proposals in mid-2013 and, after reviewing various presentations, Motorsport New Zealand’s Executive concluded that Manfeild was the best option.

“There was strong interest in hosting the event,” said MSNZ president Shayne Harris. “However, the Executive felt that Manfeild’s successful record of holding the event and its clear understanding of the costs and commercial requirements set it apart. It’s proposal also demonstrated significant community and regional support ,” he said.

Mr Harris said that the fact the National Customer Centre of Toyota New Zealand, who’s Toyota Racing Series (TRS) contests the NZGP, is located in Manawatu played only a small part in the final decision.

“Toyota NZ told us they would be happy to contest the Grand Prix on any suitable circuit; however, they felt retaining the event at Manfeild Park was good for the region. The Executive certainly took this into account, along with the unprecedented commitment Toyota NZ has made to motorsport in New Zealand, but, at the end of the day, the heritage and sustainability of the Grand Prix was our foremost consideration and it was agreed that Manfeild offered the best all-round package.”

ENDS

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