Montezemolo: no disrespect to F1 leaders
Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo has qualified his attack on Formula One leaders, clarifying that he has respect and affection towards F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone and FIA president Max Mosley
Di Montezemolo last week angrily hit out at the sport's governing body for its initial decision not to punish the McLaren team for receiving confidential technical data from ex-Ferrari engineer Nigel Stepney.
But speaking to reporters at Mugello on Sunday, where Ferrari celebrated the end of the racing season, di Montezemolo made it clear he continues to respect Ecclestone and Mosley despite his criticism.
"It's Bernie's birthday today, so I send him my best wishes," the Italian said. "I've known him since 1973, he's done a lot for F1, I'm affectionate towards him even though I don't always agree with him.
"He'll never say so, not even to his wife, but deep in his heart he is a Ferrari fan," di Montezemolo quipped.
Referring to FIA president Mosley, the Italian added: "He's worked well, he did not get rich like many have, he has my respect and Ferrari's, regardless of the decisions taken by the FIA."
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