Ecclestone Proposes TV Tax to Help Smaller Teams

Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone has proposed the idea of a Grand Prix television tax to help create a more even distribution of the sport's prize money.

Ecclestone, whose digital TV empire was shelved last year after it failed to become popular among fans, believes the teams should contribute money based on the amount of time they are featured on the television during the season.

"The money should be put into a pool specifically to help the people at the back of the field who do not get so much TV exposure," Ecclestone told British newspaper Daily Mail today.

Formula One bosses attempted to set up a $20 million (USD) "fighting fund" to ensure the smaller teams survive at least until the end of this season but Ecclestone hopes his television tax will help even more.

"It will not take us long to work out the details," Ecclestone added. "My plan to have extra cash channelled to the teams from five downwards on the grid to enable them to become more competitive.

"They are the ones that need the money. Ferrari and McLaren do not need help. Another £10 million a year wouldn't make any difference to them but for others at the back it is lifeblood."