Melbourne's Lord Mayor, Robert Doyle, has offended Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone by questioning the value of the Grand Prix in his city.

Australian Grand Prix Chairman Ron Walker said Ecclestone felt insulted and offended by Mayor Doyle's remarks.

The race has taken place in Melbourne for 14 years, and its current contract expires in 2015. 

The F1 season now comprises 20 races as of this year. If further new races happen, some of the existing ones will go, so for Melbourne's mayor to question the value of the event is pretty incomprehensible.

Ecclestone stated that 20 races are enough, and Australia is not necessary, in reaction to Doyle's comments.

Walker and Australian Grand Prix Corporation boss Andrew Westacott are pressing Geelong Mayor, John Mitchell to lobby for the race to be held in Geelong.