F1 given final EC all-clear

Motorsport's governing body, the FIA, and the commercial F1 companies founded by Bernie Ecclestone, FOA and SLEC, have been given the final all-clear and the enquiry is now closed.

Questions had been asked whether the FIA and F1 were breaking European competition laws in the way they governed the sport's commercial aspects, but the EC agreed in June this year that concessions had been made to satisfy legal demands. Now, after four months to allow for public consultation, no new complaints have come to light and the matter is settled.

Three concessions were made to appease the EC. Firstly, the body withdrew any commercial interest in motorsport to emphasise that the FIA is purely a regulatory body.

Secondly, the FIA proved that it would not impede or prevent the creation of new series that could rival F1. This was highlighted when the FIA ratified the new Premier1 Grand Prix series that is being set up for next year.

Thirdly, the FIA has strengthened internal and external appeal processes. The body showed its eagerness to comply by allowing the media access to appeal hearings for the first time this year.

Significantly, it has also been agreed that the length of new free to air TV broadcasting contracts can only be made for a maximum of three years. This allows scope for TV companies to compete freely for the rights to broadcast F1.