EU investigation decision to come 'soon'

Antitrust boss Karel Van Miert said a decision is imminent following his long-running investigation into the sport, according to news agency Reuters.

The investigation has hampered Bernie Ecclestone's attermpt to launch a public flotation of Formula One for around $1 billion.

Van Miert refused to indicate what will happen next but he has held meetings with Ecclestone and FIA president Max Mosley.

According to Reuters, Van Miert 'left little doubt Ecclestone could receive a much-dreaded statement of objections which would further delay his plans for a Eurobond issue and for the flotation of the Formula One company'.

'There have been discussions recently with both Mr Mosley and Mr Ecclestone...I am now going to settle the situation with my services in the coming days,' he said. 'We have been discussing with Mr Ecclestone for months, some progress was made, but in other areas the gap has not been bridged yet.'