Mr. Schumacher: « F1 needs the manufacturers »

The seven-time Formula 1 world champion, Michael Schumacher, has finally spoken out about the war between the FOTA and the FIA. He argued that manufacturers should not be forced to accept the radical nature of the cost-cutting measures proposed by the FIA.

The former Ferrari driver cannot imagine Formula 1 without the major manufacturers and believes that a solution must be found based on the teams’ conditions.

In a video interview published on Ferrari’s official website before the 2010 team list was revealed, Schumacher firmly believes that constructors are of vital importance for the future of F1.

« To this day, the sport is not in a very exciting situation; the same sport I participated in for most of my life and that I really love, » said Schumacher.

« At the end of the day, when you think of Ferrari, you quickly discover that this name is important, it is a big name in this sport. It has become great thanks to this sport but conversely, it has also increased the notoriety of Formula 1. »

You cannot watch F1 without Ferrari or the other manufacturers who have been present for so long. I think a solution is necessary. This solution must suit the teams that have shaped and built Formula 1; a sport that is today the pinnacle of motorsport.

« We cannot conceive radical changes accepted by manufacturers. Yes, you have a goal, yes, you want to reduce costs, but you must do it step by step. You cannot change the world in a day, it’s impossible, » concluded the German.

Max Mosley, president of the FIA, wrote to the teams in the FOTA stating that it would be preferable for them to commit unconditionally with the aim of defining new rules. The FOTA should respond very soon.