21/09/2008
NEWS STORY
Ahead of this week's much anticipated Singapore Grand Prix, the first night race in the history of F1, Ferrari President Luca di Montezemolo has expressed his doubts about the street circuit, before giving the thumbs up to (under fire) Kimi Raikkonen.
Other than fears over safety, many unsure what will happen should it rain over the course of the weekend, there is a widespread feeling that Singapore - despite the hype - will be just another street race, much like the recent event in Valencia.
di Montezemolo shares this fear. "I have the impression it will be another one of those let-downs where you cannot overtake, like Valencia," said the Italian. "Going forward with these circuits heralds a bad future for Formula One."
He is also critical of the current points system, which, with a difference of just 2 points separating the winner and second, and another 2 points separating second and third, almost encourages drivers to 'hold station', rather than attempting to fight.
"It is absurd that there are only two points between the first and second drivers," he said
While opting not to comment directly on the forthcoming appeal hearing, which follows Lewis Hamilton's demotion from first to third in the Belgian Grand Prix, di Montezemolo, who was recently named chairman of the new Formula One Teams Association (FOTA) did say that "rules should be respected".
While many consider that Kimi Raikkonen's bid to retain his crown is at an end, with the Finn admitting that he needs a miracle, the Ferrari President remains committed to the reigning champion, as proven by the surprise announcement that he is to stay with the team until the end of 2010.
At a time when many are doubting the Finn's commitment, especially when he may have to play 'second fiddle' to Felipe Massa, di Montezemolo said: Kimi is like a centre forward who is not able to score a goal. Sooner or later he will rediscover his touch."
Despite the fact that Ferrari appears to be losing ground to McLaren and, to a lesser extent, BMW, he added; "For the 11th consecutive year Ferrari are fighting for the title. Williams, McLaren, Renault come and go but we are always there."