Nothing but good words for Valencia from Ron Dennis

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McLaren Mercedes boss Ron Dennis has launched an unexpected attack on his home country Great-Britain. Dennis, who was completely overwhelmed with the good job the people in Valencia have done for the European Grand Prix, is attacking England's failings in hosting major sporting events.

Ron Dennis declared in the British newspaper 'The Daily Mail': "I have to say something a little controversial which I'll probably regret. When I go back into England and I go through Heathrow airport, I'm ashamed to be English.

"Valencia is an area that is not the gateway to their country, and yet the local government showed vision to stage the America's Cup, to commit all the resources they did to turn it into a world-class venue.

"We also know how they embraced the concept of us launching our car there. They made available to us all the facilities that exist in the arts and science park, contributed to the venue, and we were a catalyst to the grand prix.

"To see what they've done demonstrates what you can do if you are committed as a government, local or national."

The McLaren boss believes that London can teach a lot from Valencia. In 2012, the British capital city will host the Olympic Games. Dennis said: "Valencia is a testament to how you should do it. I applaud the efforts of Valencia. They've gone the right way about it, they've committed to putting in the infrastructure, to getting the resources right.

"Next year they just need to put in some more colour, the harbour needs to be full of boats, more signage and a bit more glitz, but they've got it the right way round.

"I'll be absolutely amazed if we don't go to Singapore and have the same experience next month. This is what it takes."