Bernie Ecclestone has confirmed that HRT (Hispania) has "problems", suggesting that the F1 supremo is having to help prop up the Spanish newcomer.

While many see the Englishman as utterly ruthless, those that really know him are fully aware that whilst being a shrewd, and hard nosed, businessman, his word is his bond and he can be relied on in a crisis. Many of the current inhabitants of 'Planet Paddock', and some of those who have moved on - or at least sideways - have good reason to be thankful to the 79-year-old.

Speaking in Monaco yesterday, the Englishman confirmed one of F1's worst kept secrets, that F1 newbie Hispania is struggling and that he's having to help out.

"HRT have got problems," he told the Daily Telegraph. "I will sort it out. I'd like to see 12 teams finish the season because they have made the commitment to come in. We might lose one of them. But I'm doing my bit to make sure it doesn't happen."

Long before the season got underway, Ecclestone was sceptical as to whether USF1 or Campos would make it to the grid, and despite media spin to the contrary he was proven correct. USF1 was still born while the Campos project was taken over by former Jordan/Midland/Spyker man Colin Kolles with help from Spanish entrepreneur and businessman, Jose Ramon Carabante.

Although the sport insists that it is keen to see costs cut, Hispania is learning the hard way that simply to tread water in F1 vast financial resources are required. If one is to actually make progress, far less mix it with the big boys, one needs very, very deep pockets.