Concorde dependent on cost-cutting deal

Teams had hoped to have sorted out the Concorde Agreement over this weekend, but AUTOSPORT understands that Williams and Manor Grand Prix are stalling on agreeing to a framework for cost reductions.

Without their agreement on a deal, the final documents cannot be processed - and the FIA has made it a condition of it committing to a new deal that the cost plan is agreed by every outfit.

In a move clearly designed to highlight that the governing body was not the factor hindering a Concorde Agreement being put in place, the FIA said that it was ready to commit if cost restrictions were agreed.

"Following the completion of negotiations with FOA and all 13 Formula One teams by FIA President Max Mosley and FIA Deputy President for Sport Nick Craw, the members of the World Motor Sport Council have been sent a copy of the proposed new Concorde Agreement for their consideration," said the FIA statement.

"Subject to the approval of the WMSC and on receipt of confirmation that a satisfactory cost-reduction agreement is in place, the new Concorde Agreement should be ready for signature at the end of next week."

F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone was seen in animated discussions with Williams CEO Adam Parr and Toyota team principal John Howett at the Hungaroring on Friday, as efforts were made to bring a resolution to the ongoing controversy about the future of F1.

Although Williams would not comment about the matter, AUTOSPORT understands that efforts will be made overnight to reach a solution that the team is happy with.