Mosley: FOTA response was 'weak'

FOTA recently unveiled plans for cost cuts that it believed would reduce Formula 1 budgets by 50 per cent, but the FIA World Motor Sport Council still chose to introduce an optional £30 million budget cap for 2010.

A FOTA statement expressed the teams' 'concern' at this development, but Mosley says the independent outfits are in favour of the concept.

"It was a weak response," Mosley told the Daily Telegraph. "They knew we were considering a budget cap, but I don't think they expected us just to do it like that.

"The complaint was that we didn't consult them. Well, we've been talking a lot to Force India and Williams, both of whom were very supportive. I've not spoken recently to [Red Bull owner Dietrich] Mateschitz but I would have thought it might appeal to him too.

"In any case, we had to do something. All we've had from the teams so far is 'We've done a fantastic job, we've reduced costs by 50 per cent'. So what?

"It has come down from $300-$400 million to $150-$200 million? Well, that's admirable, but I'm dubious as to whether they will still have $150-$200 million in 2010 and 2011.

"It is provisional. I actually think it could be done for £25 million but that's just my opinion. All my advisers think it should be more."

Mosley remains convinced that the teams will ultimately welcome the idea of a budget cap.

"When people calm down a little bit they will see that all of this is brilliant for Formula 1," he said. "It won't hurt the DNA of the sport - £30 million is still vastly more than any other series."