Another dark cloud has moved above the future of the British grand prix.

While some hailed July's announcement of the 2010 switch from Silverstone to Donington Park as the rescue of the embattled event, others questioned the likelihood that the latter venue can get up to scratch in time.

Questions of time and money aside, it then emerged on Friday that a slight exodus of leading figures has occurred at Donington in recent days -- most prominently the former joint CEO Lee Gill, but possibly also others.

Bernie Ecclestone said days ago: "If there is no Donington, there is no British GP."

The F1 chief executive was questioned about the latest adverse reports about Donington's grand prix plans in the Spa-Francorchamps paddock on Friday.

"We've a contract with them, which I hope they honour," the 77-year-old said.

Source: GMM