09/03/2006
NEWS STORY
Speaking ahead of crucial talks between the manufacturers who comprise the Grand Prix Manufacturers' Association (GPMA) and Bernie Ecclestone, McLaren boss Ron Dennis has said that he is confident that an amicable agreement will be reached, thus ending the threat of a breakaway.
With the season about to get underway, and Max Mosley giving the manufacturers a 'commitment window' during which time they must either commit to the 2008 World Championship or risk exclusion, the manufacturers and Ecclestone will sit down in Bahrain this weekend.
Although Mosley has appeared to harden his attitude towards the manufacturers, Ecclestone seems more willing to listen. That said, although the F1 supremo is said to be willing to give the manufacturers two seats on the board, Mosley has opted to introduce a permanent chief steward, definitely a step in the right direction.
Ahead of this weekend's important meeting, Ron Dennis is confident that a solution will be found.
"I think everyone in F1 will be in F1 in 2008 on the basis of this issue," he told reporters at Manama today.
"If Formula One exists we want to be in Formula One," he added. "We are not going to put ourselves in a position where we don't compete."
One of the main sticking points is that Mosley is keen to see costs cut dramatically, and to this end has introduced various measures - with more to follow - however, the manufacturers are concerned that the sport is being 'dumbed down' and that F1 faces losing its reputation as the technological pinnacle of motorsport.
"It is important to remember that we are talking about 2008," said Dennis. "In any process there has to be compromise at the appropriate time. That appropriate time we recognise as now. Everyone involved is determined to take decisions on the basis of what is best for Formula One."