Ferrari Threatens To Quit F1 Over Engine Row
Ferrari has threatened to quit Formula One if current cost-cutting measures in the sport are extended to include the standardisation of engines across the grid.
The issue was borne out of a discussion between the Ferrari team sporting director, Stefano Domenicali, Formula One Vice President John Howett, and FIA president Max Mosley about the issue of cost-cutting in an effort to help smaller teams survive.
Though Ferrari conceded that the reduction of costs was necessary, the Italian team said it had ‘major reservations’ over the suggestion that teams use the same engines.
Said Domenicali: ‘It would deprive formula one of its whole reason for existing, which is based on competition and technological development.
‘If these elements were to become obsolete, our administrative council board reserves the right, after consultation with its partners, to evaluate whether we remain committed to the discipline of Formula One.’
Additionally, Domenicali claimed that other manufacturers – including Honda, Mercedes, and BMW – would disapprove of using a standardised engine.
The Italian team, which has been in F1 since its first race in 1950, could use its close alignment with the FIA to its advantage, as it has managed to make the governing body back down from rule changes in the past.
