02/09/2007
NEWS STORY
The on/off/on deal which would see Renault boss Flavio Briatore take control of west London football club Queens Park Rangers [QPR] would appear to be on again, following an announcement on the team's own website.
However, following speculation that Bernie Ecclestone would concentrate on rival football team, Arsenal, it now appears that the F1 supremo is joining forces with the Italian, with a statement on the QPR website claiming "delight" at the bid by the two men.
QPR currently plays in the division below the all important, money making, Premiership, but with the sort of money Ecclestone and Briatore might bring with them, this could soon change.
Current chairman Gianni Paladini will remain in his post, however, it is understood that Briatore, along with two representatives have joined the board with immediate effect in an attempt to prevent administrators moving in. The club is understood to have had debts totalling £20m.
Speaking at yesterday's game - which saw his team lose 0-3 to Southampton, Briatore said: "Bernie and I were delighted to receive a recommendation from the board for our bid and we look forward to working alongside Gianni and his team.
"We are fully aware of the history of QPR and its loyal fan base, and we are totally committed to bringing future success to the club. Gianni, Bernie and I are all determined to see the club return to the Premiership as soon as possible."