Sports Letters: Prohibitive cost of grand prix

Sir: Nigel Mansell's absence from the British Grand Prix, contrary to Paul Hayward's article (12 July), had very little to do with the tens of thousands who stayed away on Sunday. I suggest to the organisers the more likely reason was the exorbitant ticket prices. Two years ago I took my three sons, all of us avid motor racing fans; we paid over pounds 400 for the privilege of sitting on a damp grassy bank to watch a two-hour race. Ours were the cheapest seats] What other sport can get away with fleecing its supporters so mercilessly? I for one will never set foot in another GP venue until prices become more realistic.

Yours faithfully,

RICHARD HERRINGTON

Fairlight

East Sussex

12 July