The real battle behind F1's test venue row
Debate over whether 2017 Formula 1 pre-season testing should take place in Spain, Bahrain or both has consumed the paddock at recent races - but the row goes far deeper than disagreements over the best winter weather
Last week's letter to Chase Carey, chairman of the Liberty Media offshoot that plans to acquire majority control in a two-stage buy-in of Formula 1's commercial rights, alluded briefly to the developing skirmish over the choice of 2017's pre-season test venue(s).
While relatively insignificant in the greater scheme, an in-depth analysis of this multi-faceted situation and the manner in which the various protagonists have locked into battles illustrates precisely why F1 hangs in limbo. And with, seemingly, no escape - even after current covenants expire at the end of 2020.
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