Dennis: Time is right for compromise
McLaren chief Ron Dennis believes the row over Formula One’s future is unlikely to drive any teams away from the sport.
McLaren is part of a five-team alliance that has so far refused to commit to Formula One beyond 2007 in a row over money and the way the sport is governed.
But recent months have seen signs of compromise, culminating in a meeting last weekend in which Bernie Ecclestone offered the rebel teams a presence on the board of his company.
The teams – McLaren, Renault, Honda, Toyota and BMW-Sauber – are believed to be close to a financial deal with commercial rights holder Ecclestone, and Dennis predicted compromise over technical issues.
Dennis is convinced any remaining problems can be ironed out to prevent the threatened breakaway series.
“If Formula One exists we want to be in Formula One,” he said as his sport prepared for the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix this weekend.
“We are not going to put ourselves in a position where we don’t compete.
“Our objective has always been to find a way forward that works for everyone. I think everyone in Formula One will be in Formula One in 2008 on the basis of this issue.”
The rebel teams, who formed the Grand Prix Manufacturers’ Association to champion a rival series, are in the process of finding common ground with FIA president Max Mosley.
The Englishman wants radical rule changes to cut costs, but teams are keen to maintain Formula One’s high-tech image. Dennis believes the time is right for compromise.
“There is a positive desire,” he said.
“It is important to remember that we are talking about 2008.
“In any process there has to be compromise at the appropriate time. That appropriate time we recognise as now.
“Everyone involved is determined to take decisions on the basis of what is best for Formula One.”
Ecclestone has already expressed his view that a deal can be reached before this season starts in Sakhir on Sunday.
Dennis is more cautious but backs Ecclestone’s plan to involve teams more closely in the sport’s business side.
“We had a very constructive meeting in Munich last Sunday,” he added.
“Efforts have been made to document these things that are agreed into a memorandum of understanding.
“If Formula One benefits everyone in Formula One benefits. It is a better way forward for Formula One and incentivises everyone in Formula One to make it better.”
