FORMULA one chief Bernie Ecclestone last night held out some hope Australia and other countries paying massive rights fees to host grands prix could negotiate cost cuts because of the financial crisis. The Victorian Government will this year pay a reported $47 million sanction fee to host the Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park, a sum that has sparked controversy at a time when economic conditions are deteriorating daily. In a telephone hook-up with Australian journalists last night, London-based Mr Ecclestone did not rule out the prospect of some renegotiations.