The FIA responds to the Ferrari threat

Communication between FOTA and FIA does not seem to be going smoothly, as both organizations are issuing statements through the media in turn.

Last night, Ferrari expressed its deepest concerns about the standardization of engines. For the Scuderia, such an approach would harm the sport. If the FIA opts for a single engine supplier, Ferrari admits it would no longer want to line up on the starting grid. Other teams might be tempted to do the same.

This afternoon, the FIA released a press statement asserting that the Italian car manufacturer did not have a comprehensive view of the case.

It seems that Ferrari was misinformed. The FIA offered the teams several options, one of which is what’s called the serial engine.

Ferrari announced an increase in its revenues and profits, something the FIA wishes to see for all teams.

« The FIA is delighted to know about Ferrari’s financial success and hopes it will be sustainable. However, a number of teams are facing costs that far exceed their revenues. This is not sustainable. Engine manufacturers are now being asked to either accept one of the FIA’s options or to come up with concrete proposals themselves to reduce costs to a reasonable level. The FIA will take all necessary measures to preserve the credibility of the world championship for both drivers and constructors. »

The ball is now in FOTA’s court. It is up to the teams to decide on the regulatory framework to follow from 2010 onwards.