The BMW motorsport supremo Mario Theissen yesterday warned that manufacturers could withdraw from formula one unless the thorny issue of the budget cap is swiftly resolved. It is the latest political argument to surround the sport after the governing FIA last week announced a £40m cap is to be imposed from next year.
Although designed to curb spending and attract new teams, there is the threat that a two-tier championship could unfold, creating confusion for the fans and causing acrimony among the teams.
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“It would definitely create a difficult situation,” said Theissen when asked if the manufacturers would pull out if the situation went unresolved. “We really hope there will be a one-tier F1 next year, and not two classes of cars running to different regulations.
“It would definitely affect our next internal evaluation. It would be a different environment.”
However, as the teams have to confirm their entries for 2010 by 27 May at the latest, the situation is becoming a pressing one. Asked as to whether there could be a resolution within three weeks, Theissen replied: “I don’t know. When you read in our press release the word ‘urgent’, it really aims at being quick enough to avoid further disturbances.” Guardian.co.uk
The dispute about the budget regulation continues: After Ferrari, now, BMW is considering seriously ending its Formula-1-engagement. Save money yes - but not at this pace, says the message.
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The BMW board re-approved the BMW-Sauber project in February, but Theissen warned that if the landscape in F1 dramatically changes, it would have the same impact on the project. BBC Sports
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