Monza a 'core' F1 race and must be preserved - Ferrari
Formula 1 would lose part of its "core" by dropping Monza, says Ferrari boss Maurizio Arrivabene, but he ruled out the Scuderia trying to help save the Italian Grand Prix
Monza authorities and F1 commercial chief Bernie Ecclestone have reached an impasse on negotiations for a new deal for the Italian GP, which has been a staple of the world championship calendar since its inaugural season in 1950.
The race has been held at Monza every year bar a one-off relocation to Imola in 1980, but Ecclestone is doubtful it will earn a new contract beyond 2016.
Arrivabene said F1 had the opportunity to make a statement about its values by finding a way to secure Monza's future.
"I've said many, many times that there is a core of Formula 1, represented by Monza, Spa-Francorchamps, Hockenheim, Silverstone and Monza," he said.
"This is the core of Formula 1 and I think you have to preserve it.
"Every person that loses his own culture, loses their roots and is not a person anymore.
"If we lose the core, we lose the show. There is a possibility to make a clear statement [by helping Monza].
"I have nothing against all the other grands prix, it's an international show. But the show needs to have a core.
"This is my personal opinion and it's our opinion as Ferrari."
Asked if he or Ferrari could play a role in helping Monza, Arrivabene replied: "'Playing a role' is a big word.
"We are not negotiating with Bernie, it's not our job or our responsibility."
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