The FIA expresses its point of view on the difficulties of Caterham and Marussia
While Marussia and Caterham will not take part in the United States Grand Prix, the FIA has released a statement on its website calling for continued efforts towards cost reduction in F1.
After the placement of the Marussia and Caterham teams into administration, the FIA expressed its point of view through a statement published on its website.
The Federation, led by Jean Todt, insisted that it was up to the stewards alone to decide whether the teams were complying with the obligation to participate in all the events on the calendar, while suggesting that, given their difficult financial situation, a certain leniency should be applied.
The FIA has been informed of the financial difficulties of Caterham and Marussia and the considerable uncertainty surrounding their participation in the final races of the 2014 championship, begins the statement. It is the responsibility of the FIA stewards to determine whether or not a team has failed to meet its obligation to participate in all the events on the calendar and to make any decision they deem appropriate.
« However, we have full confidence that the commissioners are fully aware of the financial situation of the teams involved and that these issues are always assessed with extreme caution and consideration of the circumstances. »
Then, the FIA reaffirms its commitment to reducing costs: « Looking beyond the 2014 season, these absences once again raise serious concerns about the economic balance of the Formula 1 World Championship and justify the position, often expressed by the FIA, in favor of any initiative that would help reduce costs to ensure the survival of the grid or to attract potential new entrants. »
« Thus, the FIA, in collaboration with the FOM and the various stakeholders in F1, will continue to work to maintain the attractiveness of the championship and the fair participation of the teams in it in the coming years. »
