McLaren has conveyed its ‘absurdly ambitious plan’ to install a Grand Prix circuit on the streets of Woking – the brand’s hometown.
Speaking strictly tongue-in-cheek, the UK manufacturer claimed that Woking in Surrey would become one of the world’s most ‘glamourous’ and ‘iconic’ Formula 1 tracks, joining the likes of Monaco and Singapore.
In a bit of an ambiguous statement, McLaren CEO Jonathan Neale stated; "Why not? Why not bring Formula 1 to the streets of Woking?
"Obviously, aside from the huge social and financial commitment needed to set up the infrastructure, re-profile roads, re-lay Tarmac, fit miles of Armco, build grandstands, pay for race-hosting fees and gain approval and sign-off from the FIA, we don't see any barriers to our vision."
The vision, it seems, is to create a track that mirrors the charm of British countryside. Like a yacht lined Mote Carlo road, McLaren aims to parallel the scenery by using the Woking-Basingstoke canal and its barges.
As farfetched and hilarious as this sounds, the news could actually carry some weight, especially after Silverstone’s owner announced it had plans to cease hosting the race after 2019.
Woking Borough Council’s chief executive, Ray Morgan, stated; "We look forward to receiving McLaren's proposal which would reinforce Woking's position on the world stage."
Could Woking be the new home of the British Grand Prix?