The British and French grands prix look to have been saved after every formula-one team apart from Ferrari agreed on Tuesday to cut testing by 50%, according to Autosport magazine’s website.
The teams agreed to bear the cost of two extra races in a collective agreement. Ferrari, who oppose a cut in testing, were absent from the meeting.
”We’ve not got a contract with Silverstone yet, but I would be shattered and disappointed if we didn’t get a deal,” said formula-one supremo Bernie Ecclestone, who met with the teams to hammer out the details.
McLaren chief Ron Dennis certainly thinks the deal means both the races could go ahead.
”We believe agreement was reached that removes any obvious obstacle for the British and French grands prix to take place,” he said.
The teams shell out £3-million for each race but decided they could put up with 19 races next season and felt it was better to cut expenses by reducing testing.
Ecclestone was more upbeat about Ferrari joining the rest of their rivals in agreeing to the compromise.
”It’s wrong to say that Ferrari have been excluded,” said Ecclestone. ”I think they will come along. It’s positive news for a change.”
The British Grand Prix had been in danger because of a financial dispute between Silverstone’s owners, the British Racing Drivers’ Club (BRDC) and Ecclestone, who has had his run-ins with them in the past.
The two parties will still have to agree a deal for the race to regain its place on the calendar for 2005.
”The BRDC has not yet been officially informed of any proposal by FOM [Formula One Management],” the BRDC said in a statement.
”But if there is a new proposal to safeguard the British Grand Prix in 2005 which makes financial sense for the sport, the industry, the club and especially the local economy, it will be seriously considered by the board.” — Sapa-AFP