Question: The withdrawal of Honda from Formula One racing - were you aware that it was so imminent?
Max Mosley: The withdrawal of Honda was a surprise. They were good enough to inform us in confidence four days before announcing it, but they would have been one of the last teams I would have expected to withdraw.
Question: This idea of a standardized engine from 2010 has drawn some pretty negative reactions from the manufacturers. We now seem to be heading towards the alternative of the manufacturers agreeing to supply better value customer engines. What do you envision being finally agreed?
Max Mosley: This is still under discussion, but I think we will end up with a frozen engine, regulated in such a way that independent teams can obtain inexpensive supplies. I think we ought to try to have at least one independent outside engine supplier, because of the risk that we will lose another manufacturer or even two.
Question: Aside from making Formula One racing more cost effective, another of the FIA’s aims is to make it more competitive. How confident are you that the ‘09 regulations changes will lead to more overtaking?
Max Mosley: The 2009 aerodynamic regulations were developed by three of the top Formula One engineers, aided by an extensive wind tunnel programme. I have no means of judging whether they have got it right, but if they have not, it will be surprising and disappointing. In addition, the KERS system, if fitted, will make a significant difference to overtaking by giving a car an 80hp boost for up to six seconds each lap.
Question: When you go, what achievements will you look back on most proudly - and what will be your biggest regrets or disappointments?
Max Mosley: I think the biggest achievements will have been the improvements in safety both on public roads and on the circuits. However, one must remember that a great many other people have been involved. I initiated these things, but others have made them work. The greatest disappointment has been the tendency of some fans to criticise without understanding what we are trying to do.
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