Ferrari: Long 2021 rules list still needs agreeing, but deal doable

With the FIA and Liberty pushing to get a framework for the 2021 rules in place by June 2019, talks with the teams have increased in recent weeks.

A formal joint presentation of ideas was made ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix, with more individual discussions now set to take place.

But although several outstanding issues remain for the teams, Ferrari in particular is optimistic that things are moving in the right direction.

"There is not much time, but for us it is more important to make sure we've got the right agreements and we should not be caught by time," said team principal Mattia Binotto.

"But it's not because the list is long that the compromises are distant as well.

"I'm positive on the level of discussion and collaboration we've got. That's why I'm optimistic we'll find the right balance."

One possibility that emerged from the Bahrain meeting was for the publication of car regulations to be pushed back until December.

This move has gathered support from a number of teams.

But such a delay would require some form of unanimous agreement, as the FIA Sporting Code says that major regulation changes for 2021 will need to be in place by June this year.

It is understood teams are investigating the legal implications of a delay to see what can be achieved.

Reflecting on the progress of rule talks, Binotto added: "The process is still ongoing.

"There are still points where there is some distance compared to [the FIA's] position and what we believe should be the right Ferrari position, but we are still discussing.

"It will be good for F1 to find the right agreement and I am pretty sure we will do it."