Di Montezemolo focusing on race

Di Montezemolo had a lengthy meeting with Renault boss Flavio Briatore on Saturday, prompting wild rumours in the paddock that Ferrari were toying with capturing Fernando Alonso if he leaves McLaren.

But speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, di Montezemolo insisted that their conversation had nothing to do with Alonso or spying.

"We hadn't seen each other for a long time and there is this big debate over future regulations and costs," said di Montezemolo. "I must say this issue and the spectacle are becoming very important, so we'll need to set out a common view.

"I think F1 is on the verge of necessary changes in this sense. I will also talk about it with (Bernie) Ecclestone and BMW's (Burkhard) Goeschel."

When asked whether he talked about Alonso and his future with Briatore, di Montezemolo made a cheeky reference to Briatore's new involvement with football club QPR: "No, I don't think that's today's issue. With Flavio we joked about an exchange of football players, like Alessandro del Piero against some English ones...

"Alonso is a great champion, and life is long, but I'm very satisfied about our drivers. Let's not forget this is a very delicate season for us, because not having Schumacher is not something of little importance.

"We've won six out of 12 races and unfortunately we were unable to take advantage of certain opportunities to get more points because of some reliability problems and some mistakes. We are coming from a nice 1-2.

"I repeat, today Alonso is not an issue of topical interest, even considering he's a great champion. My topical interest is just one: to win here at Monza. We'll see if it's possible to do it."

Regarding the ongoing spy saga, which now involves McLaren facing investigation by the Italian authorities, di Montezemolo said: "I've already said more than once what I had to say about it. I've just been told of the latest news, with someone getting notices (of investigation), but I don't even know the charges they're suspected of.

"Yes, it's a serious moment for F1. As I've already said, it's a very ugly thing. So now, with respect for the magistrates and for the sporting developments, I prefer saying no more."