Jul.9 (GMM) Bernie Ecclestone has dashed any hopes that Austria might return to the formula one calendar any time in the near future.

Even though efforts are being made to restore the old A1-Ring venue, which last hosted a grand prix in 2003, F1's chief executive has told an Austrian newspaper that the European country's formula one days are over.

Asked by a Kleinen Zeitung reporter if Austria will feature again on the annual schedule, 76-year-old Ecclestone replied plainly: "No, never again."

He said the sport must seek venues from which teams, sponsors and the car manufacturers can "gain the most profits".

He said teams "now understand that formula one is a giant motor show. And the more people there are to watch, the better it is for them."