F1 teams must work together, says Wolff
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said Friday that Formula One teams have a responsibility to try to overcome their differences over the future of the sport in the face of a threat by Ferrari to quit because of a number of proposed changes.
Bernie Ecclestone, who ran F1 for 40 years before being replaced by new owners Liberty Media last year, has raised the possibility that Ferrari chairman Sergio Marchionne could walk away from F1 and form a breakaway series over Liberty’s future vision for the sport. Ferrari is unhappy with Liberty’s proposal to simplify engines and redistribute prize money among F1 teams after the current contract with teams expires at the end of 2020.
Ferrari team boss Maurizio Arrivabene would not comment on the specifics of Marchionne’s previous comments, but said: “My only suggestion, please take him seriously.” Wolff is also taking the possibility of Ferrari walking away seriously.
He told Britain’s Press Association that he agreed with Marchionne’s concerns and that Formula One can’t afford to alienate Ferrari or lose the team. “Don’t mess with Sergio Marchionne,” he said. “Formula One needs Ferrari much more than Ferrari needs Formula One.” Wolff was more diplomatic on Friday, saying he hopes all sides could come together for the good of the sport.
“I think this as much a battle on track as much as it is a fight off it,” he said.
“It is clear the current governance and how the rules are being made is not very functional. There’s too much different opinions and agendas and we need to sort it for 2021 for the best interest.” Red Bull boss Christian Horner agreed there are too many competing agendas, suggesting that the FIA-Formula One’s governing body-and Liberty Media come together to decide on a set of regulations and framework for the next contract.
MELBOURNE: