FOTA seek FIA talks

The Formula One Teams’ Association are demanding immediate showdown talks with the FIA after admitting to “concerns” over the regulations for next season.

Motor sport’s world governing body last week announced a £40m (€45.5m) budget cap for 2010 in a bid to slash soaring costs and attract new teams to the sport.

Existing teams have the option of spending freely, but being forced to work within the current technical regulations, or going with the budget, but enjoying a performance advantage via engine power, KERS and aerodynamic aids.

It has sparked fears of a two-tier championship unfolding, and last week prompted a row via an exchange of letters between FIA president Max Mosley and Ferrari president and FOTA chairman Luca di Montezemolo.

Di Montezemolo, the budget cap’s staunchest critic, made clear his views that the implementation of such a policy could prove divisive and cause confusion among fans.

Mosley’s response was dismissive as he reminded di Montezemolo of the over-riding pressure to slash spending, before pole-axing the venerable Italian by claiming F1 could live without Ferrari.

Although other teams have expressed a willingness to accept a cap, the likes of McLaren and Williams have made it clear it will not be at the expense of a split-level championship.

FOTA met yesterday to discuss the FIA proposals and they are now seeking immediate negotiations with Mosley to resolve the burning budget cap issue.

A statement read: “FOTA held a positive and constructive meeting and agreed to continue working together in a methodical manner for the definition of further cost reduction in 2010 and 2011, progressing along the path begun in 2008.

“FOTA has concerns with the decisions taken at the last WMSC (World Motor Sport Council) meeting regarding the 2010 regulations and therefore asks to begin urgent consultations with the FIA.”

However, those talks will have to be put on hold for a short while at least in order to allow Mosley to grieve following the death on Tuesday of his son Alexander.

Mosley was due to attend this weekend’s Spanish Grand Prix but appreciably that visit has now been postponed.