F1 could return to rebuilt A1-Ring

Formula one could soon return to Austria.

After dropping off the grand prix calendar in 2003, the A1-Ring in Zeltweg - located in central Austria - was demolished.

Supported by Red Bull mogul Dietrich Mateschitz, EUR 70 million reconstruction works began late in 2008, including new pit buildings and grandstands.

But although Mateschitz said at the time that "speaking about a return of formula one" to Austria "would be absurd", a report in the Kleine Zeitung newspaper has now raised that possibility.

The Styria-based newspaper said F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone sees the former Osterreichring as a potential replacement for a current Asian race.

Kleine Zeitung said the A1-Ring rumour was heard "several times" in the Valencia paddock last weekend.

The rebuilt circuit, with a DTM race already likely, is set to re-open in April or May of next year.