The German Grand Prix will be split between its two major circuits – Hockenheim and Nurburgring – it was announced today. Hockenheim will host the race in 2008 and 2010, and Nurburburgring will stage the 2007 and 2009 Grands Prix.

This announcement came after much speculation arose after the FIA released the provisional calendar somewhat earlier than usual. Most people think this move was made to apply pressure to some circuits that were ommitted to make the necessary updates to bring their facilities up to current standards.

The German Grand Prix came under threat last year when it was realised that Hockenheim was facing financial difficulties. It was anounced almost strauight away that the two circuits could share the race, thus halving the costs essentially, but it does mean the European Grand Prix will be sacrificed, as per the 2007 Provisional Calendar.

F1, Formula One, hockenheim, Nurburgring, german Grand Prix