F1 is on course for a fresh civil war
As Formula 1's 2020 moment of truth approaches, expect new political alliances between teams - but rival factions rather than one unified body - and perhaps even tracks and broadcasters. And will Bernie Ecclestone be called into battle again?
Following last week's prognosis that the Formula One Group, F1's new commercial rights holder following Liberty Media's takeover, faces revenue squeezes from teams demanding greater income slices on one side and promoters, partners and broadcasters on the other, senior sources confirmed that the formation of a "modern day FOTA" was under consideration.
Not surprisingly, enquiries kicked off a 'blame game'. Fingers were pointed every which way: independent teams suggested the so-called Constructors' Championship Bonus teams, namely Mercedes, Red Bull Racing, Ferrari and McLaren - which, between them, carve up 65% of revenues and enjoy Strategy Group status - were collectively planning "to protect their positions", as one source phrased it, after the prevailing bilateral contracts expire in 2020.
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