07/07/2005
NEWS STORY
As reported elsewhere, the people behind the proposed breakaway F1 series met in Munich on Wednesday.
Pitpass can now confirm that five manufacturers, together with representatives of nine of the F1 teams, Ferrari being the exception since it is already committed to Formula One from 2008.
Although little is known of what took place behind the closed doors, before those present headed off to Silverstone, Pitpass can confirm that the meeting was "positive, constructive and took place in a relaxed mood," at least that's what a spokesman for the manufacturers has told us.
According to the spokesman, "80% of the issues on the agenda were discussed" with several more similar meetings planned over the coming weeks.
Having seen reports elsewhere, some of which have been highly sensational, the spokesman was at pains to stress that the meeting, and indeed the proposals being discussed are nowhere near as political as some would have you believe. Furthermore, yesterday's meeting did not focus on Max Mosley or, contrary to reports, discuss who his successor might/should be. "This is media speculation", said the spokesman. "It was one of many meetings," he added, "and Max is aware of the schedule."
As talk of a breakaway series continues, even on Pitpass, the spokesman wanted to make it clear that this is not the intention: "We are not attempting to create a rival series," he said. "What we want to do is ensure the future of Grand Prix racing. That is why our proposals, when they are ready, will be put before Bernie Ecclestone and Max Mosley.
"We are working towards a future framework for Formula One," he added, "that will see more stability, greater transparency, a fairer share of the revenue created for the teams, and generally a better formula for the fans.
"Only if this cannot come about would we resort to 'Plan B'," he added. "If push comes to shove we know how it can be done, but this is not our primary objective."
Asked when we might expect some sort of proposal, the spokesman said that there will be; "definitely nothing before Hockenheim".