Formula One news

No enthusiasm in small teams, says di Montezemolo

The Formula One Teams Association (FOTA) and Ferrari President Luca di Montezemolo seemed to be full of ideas for the good of the future of F1 at the Frankfurt Motorshow this week. Throughout his talk with the media, di Montezemolo touched upon various controversial subjects of F1 including the testing ban and the fall in attendance figures. 

On the subject of attendance figures, the Italian stated that the media and event organisers must work to make the sport more interesting for those who attend a race weekend. The Ferrari President then angled the conversation towards his own personal ideology of a possible return of three-car teams. 

Rumours continue to link a whole host of drivers, including Fernando Alonso, to Ferrari for 2010

"The future of F1 will not rely upon small independent teams with no enthusiasm," di Montezemolo began, hinting at the FIA's plan to run 14 teams next year. "We need the opportunity to run famous or new younger drivers in a third car." Again, the Italian showing that he has at least three - and possibly more - drivers on the Ferrari roster for next year. 

Ferrari have struggled this year with the need to replace the injured Felipe Massa and di Montezemolo spoke of the testing ban and his hopes of Massa's quick return to form next year. 

"This is the only sport that does not train." He also stated that there was scope for the adjustment of the testing ban, whilst ensuring costs are kept at a reasonable level. 

On the subject of Massa's return, he spoke with great hope that the Brazilian would return and become as fast than before. "Massa is psychologically ready to return and we have a personal bet that he will be quicker when he gets in the car."

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