At least two changes to the existing Silverstone layout are expected to be made for the circuit's MotoGP debut in 2010.
Having lost the British F1 grand prix to Donington Park from 2010, Silverstone responded by snatching the British MotoGP round - but, like Donington, Silverstone now needs to be modified to accommodate its new 'headline' event.
The most obvious feature in need of a MotoGP redesign at Silverstone is the end-of-lap chicane used by WSBK and BSB in recent seasons. The fiddly chicane, on a piece of asphalt to the inside of the F1 circuit, was imposed on the two-wheeled classes to avoid a fast final turn with almost no run off, but MotoGP will expect a better solution.
The other area of likely modification is more controversial: The barriers through the sweeping Bridge corner, leading into the final complex, are expected to be deemed too close to the racetrack.
Unless the bridge can be moved or modified, which seems unlikely, then one of the most challenging corners on the track could well be lost.
"Silverstone officials have been working closely with the FIM whose representatives have visited the circuit on several occasions," Silverstone confirmed. "Alterations will be made to the circuit layout in order to comply with FIM regulations, while improvements to several spectator viewing areas are also planned. Full details of all track and venue changes will be announced in due course."
Silverstone last hosted grand prix road racing between 1977 and 1986. World championship motorcycling then returned in the form of WSBK between 2002 and 2007.
WSBK initially raced on the full F1 circuit, before switching to the shorter International circuit - which cuts out many of the track's most famous sections - to increase the number of race laps and therefore the amount of times spectators saw the bikes.
Silverstone have confirmed to Crash.net that they will announce their plans for the circuit later this month.
