Force India described Friday plans by eight Formula One teams, including Ferrari, to form a rival series after refusing to participate in the 2010 F1 championship as “very sad and disappointing.”
Force India and Williams will be the only current teams on the F1 grid next season after lodging unconditional entries, breaking ranks with the eight-strong Formula One Teams Association. At the moment, they know they will be joined by newcomers Campos Racing, Team US F1 and Manor F1 Team. USA Today
“We were always hoping there would be compromise between FOTA (the Formula One Teams Association) and the FIA (International Automobile Federation),” Force India owner Vijay Mallya said at the British Grand Prix.
“But at midnight last night I was notified by FOTA about their decision, which already seems to be heading towards a breakaway championship or series.
“We find this to be very sad and disappointing, particularly since the FIA World Championship and the Formula One brand has been developed into an invaluable property over many decades,” added the drinks and aviation tycoon who bought the Silverstone-based team in 2007. guardian.co.uk
Both Force India and Williams were suspended by FOTA, which is launching the series and pledging to introduce transparent governance and one set of rules. USA Today
| 
|