FIA SEEKS ENGINE SOURCE // CHANGES FOR 2010?

Citing out of control costs associated with F1 engine development, the FIA sent out a statement seeking drive train suppliers for the entire Formula One fleet. What would that mean? Think IRL or worse, think NASCAR. The same engine/transmission package, built and tuned by the same manufactuer, in each car. The company that wins the contract, would either build each individual engine, or (more likely) design and supervise the manufacturing process across the board. Hoping to implement the plan by the start of the 2010 season, this very well might spell the end of manufacturer competition in Formula One, what has become the staple of motorsport development. After the statements release, a wave of negative opinion washed over the F1 community, yet F1 head cheese, Bernie Eccelstone, remained optimistic. "We're trying to get a level playing field, I don't see why (manufacturers) should leave, we're saving them an awful lot of money I hope."

With increased costs associated with development, allowing only those teams with unlimited budgets to remain competitive, we must assume that the FIA is employing a tactic used once before. Offer them the most unthinkable, unrealistic plan (i.e. a Honda powered Ferrari chassis...) and then corner them into accepting a more reasonable offer down the line. The FIA is set to meet with the Formula One Teams Association in Geneva later this week, but whatever the outcome, the fate of Formula One looks glum. With increased regulations and restrictions, forcing those that can afford development to compensate for those that cannot, creates a less competitive atmosphere. Your thoughts? Photo courtesy of Eric Erdero // 10.21.2008