Jean Todt hopes for a full 2010 grid

The president of the FIA, Jean Todt, expressed confidence that 13 teams will be present in Formula 1 this year. Increasingly persistent rumors suggest that USF1 and Campos Meta will miss the first three races of the season. Despite this, both teams claim to be on track for the first race. US F1 and Campos continue to be surrounded by speculation that leaves them unable to bring their cars and equipment to Bahrain for the season opener on March 14.

Under the old regulations, no absence from a Grand Prix was tolerated. However, Bernie Ecclestone and Jean Todt have now confirmed that arrangements are in place allowing teams to miss up to a total of three races without penalty. This means that USF1 and Campos Meta have theoretically obtained the right to start their season at the Chinese Grand Prix on April 18.

In the event of a total withdrawal of one or both teams, Stefan GP has no chance of being in Formula 1 before Shanghai despite their eagerness for the race. Speaking to the media last week, Todt confirmed the three-race rule and warned Stefan GP that there is nothing automatic about their entry in case of a defection.

« With less money for some, we are still expecting our 13 F1 teams this year, » the Frenchman explained to the Gazzetta dello Sport. « In the latest version of the Concorde Agreements, it is stated that a team can miss three races. But if a team cannot stay, it is not a given that another one will step in. It is up to the FIA to decide the required conditions. »

Todt emphasized certain priorities in F1 and believes that the sport needs to wake up to the economic and environmental realities the world is facing.

« We need to reduce costs, improve the show, and attract investors. F1 must understand that the world has changed. How can you explain that an F1 car needs 80 liters of fuel to cover 100 kilometers? »

« I don’t like cost caps, we need to achieve a reduction with clear rules. For example, with a single aerodynamic package for the whole year. Do the cars skid more in Monte Carlo? Maybe, but then it will be up to the drivers to show their quality.

He added: « It’s not acceptable to have given up on KERS. Teams complain that it’s too expensive? Then they must find a way to save money. Teams are sensitive when it comes to lap times, but less sensitive when the environment is being discussed. »