Bellm has his say

Former Chairman of the British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC), Ray Bellm, who was removed from his role this week, has hit back at the Club. The BRDC claimed Bellm "stepped down" from the Chairman position but Bellm's view is that he had no choice in the matter.

"I categorically deny the statement from the British Racing Drivers' Club dated January 12th stating that I stepped down from my position of Chairman of the Board of the BRDC," he said in a statement of his own. "At a Board meeting held on January 11th the post of Chairman was removed and through this decision, I no longer hold the position."

The BRDC secured a five year deal with Formula One Management to promote the British Grand Prix while Bellm was at the helm, but it seems that not everyone in the Club was happy with the agreement.

"The underlying issue for removal of my position is a disagreement by some Board members of the terms of the contract with FOM for the British Grand Prix," said Bellm.

"I led the negotiations on this and acted in the interests of the Club to secure the best -- and possibly only -- deal available to us. I am saddened that, after all the hard work, there is dissent and disillusion within the Board."

The BRDC said the future of the British GP would not be affected by Bellm no longer being Chairman. Bellm said he will remain on the Board and continue to contribute to the Club.