Bernie Ecclestone admits Imola could replace Monza

Bernie Ecclestone has confirmed that Imola is in the running to snatch the Italian Grand Prix from Monza.

As the F1 supremo's troubled talks with Monza organisers over a 2017 contract drag on, Imola chief Uberto Selvatico Estense said this week that the former San Marino GP venue Imola is "ready" to take over.

He had told La Repubblica that the only glitch was getting funds from the Italian automobile club Aci, which is arguing that Monza should be the recipient.

Ecclestone has now told reporters on Saturday that if the Aci is "not happy in Monza, and they want it in Imola, we are happy to support Imola".

The 2016 championship continues this weekend with the European Grand Prix in Baku.