Formula One news

Teams needing more time to assess budget cap

Formula One teams are likely to be calling for more time to assess the situation regarding an optional budget cap in Formula One as of next season, after the FIA opened its doors to suggestions surrounding the proposed £30 million figure, which is to be discussed next week.

The last week of April will see the governing body's World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) meet to talk about the spending limit, although Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA) representatives believe more time is needed before making a final decision over the matter.

BMW's Dr. Mario Theissen

"Generally, I think it is good to come back to the idea of an overall budget cap, which was discussed a year ago," said BMW's Mario Theissen. "At that time we supported it as a principle, and still do. The critical thing is still to agree on the right figure, although I have to say that, at that time, not all teams were in favour of a budget cap."

He admits the scheme will require 'serious thought' as whether it is an option for all teams, which will be presented with the option of taking a budget cap but enjoying technical freedom or, alternatively, no FIA-imposed budget but running under this year's restricted technical regulations. "We should try to come to an agreement on the right cap, and that is what we intend to do," Dr. Theissen continued. "But that is definitely not possible within 24 hours."

He did admit, however, that no decisions will be possible at the World Council meeting next week, which takes places before the next FOTA get-together. "It would be wise to agree on a glide path over two or three years," Theissen added, "rather than jumping in with a hard limit right away. What we need is a sensible approach in place, and a sustainable approach for the teams."

More news from the FIA this week revealed that, as well as motorhomes and hospitality, driver salaries will no longer be covered under the cap on spending budgets.

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