F1 Teams Threaten Breakaway from FIA
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Eight teams refuse to join under FIA budget capping rules.
Formula One is on the brink of collapse as internal strife has sundered the sport apart.
The 2010 F1 championships could be crippled by the boycott of Brawn GP, BMW Sauber, Ferrari, McLaren, Red Bull Racing, Renault, Toro Rosso and Toyota.
The collected rebel alliance which make up the Formula One Teams’ Association (FOTA), have obstinately refused to sign up for the 2010 championship because of new rules imposed capping team budgets.
The governing body of F1, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) issued a statement on their website: “The FIA is disappointed but not surprised by FOTA’s inability to reach a compromise in the best interests of the sport.”
The FIA was adamant that it would not bow to outside influences if it was to retain authority: “The FIA cannot permit a financial arms race in the Championship nor can the FIA allow FOTA to dictate the rules of Formula One.”
If things remain as they are, the depleted F1 championship will be left with Williams and Force India along with three new challengers in the form of Campos, Manor and USF1. As hard as it may be for FIA President Max Mosley, and F1 mogul Bernie Ecclestone to admit, F1 needs FOTA more than FOTA needs F1, as the stars of the show seek an alternative championship to race in next year.
Arguments have gone back and forth trying to reach a compromise over the proposed £40 million budget cap which the FIA said would put an end to an “F1 arms race”. With no solution in sight though FOTA said in a statement: “The teams therefore have no alternative other than to commence the preparation for a new championship which reflects the values of the participants and partners.”
As this Sunday holds the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, fans of the sport will no doubt savour what could ultimately be the last true F1 championship to take place.
