Robert Grasso - the sweet spot

Motorsport geeks on internet forums around the world speculate and argue the current impasse has been coming for a long time now.

In truth, it’s a scene worthy of a Mad Max sequel. However in this particular instalment, it’s a certain Bernie Ecclestone who rules the wasteland. Or at least once did.

In the red corner, the sport’s governing body, the FIA and its president, Max Mosley.

In the blue corner, eight members of FOTA, otherwise known as the Formula One Teams’ Association.

Both parties have been at odds for weeks since the FIA decided on a budget cap in order to allow new teams to enter the sport and to keep existing ones racing in the face of the credit crunch.

But the issue runs deeper than that. Right into the teams’ financial pockets in fact with many claiming tens of millions of dollars have been withheld from them by the commercial rights holder.

Led by Ferrari, the rebels’ threat to quit F1 if their demands over the issue were not met and establish a breakaway series seems to have hit the spot.

Already, the back flips have begun in earnest. At least from commercial supremo Ecclestone who has agreed to the teams requests in return for their loyalty. Smart man that. If you can’t beat them, get them to join you.


But what are the ramifications and who really is the biggest loser?

Aside from the FIA threatening to sue FOTA, the split will have serious implications for broadcasters seeking compensation for what will be a diminished F1 without its big-name teams and drivers. Furthermore, the venues that host F1 races may seek to welcome breakaway events.

It’s fair to say, it’s a pile up of proportions never seen before on pit straight.

But more importantly, the biggest threat facing Formula One is apathy. The teams may have had a gutful, but so too have many fans.

This one included.