Marchionne: 'We want a clear protection of F1's DNA'

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Ferrari president Sergio Marchionne wants Formula 1's DNA to be protected from the "commercial and entertainment" factors promoted by Liberty Media.

Present at the Geneva motor show yesterday, Marchionne reiterated his intention to steer Ferrari away from Formula 1 if the sport took on a standardized format when new rules are ushered in from 2021.

The Fiat Chrysler boss was hopeful however that a compromise can be reached between all parties.

"We want a clear protection of the DNA of this sport," Marchionne told Italy's Corriere dello Sport.

"We do not want it to be diluted by commercial and entertainment factors.

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"We are engaged in the technical side, while I believe Liberty does not understand a thing about this. So let us work.

"If one competitor cannot be distinguished from the next - if Ferrari cannot stand out from Mercedes - then we'll do something else," he added.

Asked if F1's state of affairs were better under the ruling of Bernie Ecclestone, the Italian-Canadian manager said: "I saw Bernie this morning. I don't know.

"Liberty's commercial commitment is very serious, but Bernie had a unique strength -- he was not going to interfere in the technical choice," he said.

On the subject of the Scuderia's chances of clinching the title this year, Marchionne expressed his confidence in the team's ability to deliver the goods, underlining the relaxed atmosphere which currently prevails at the House of Maranello.

"It's definitely the quietest season I've faced since arriving in 2014," he revealed.

"The boys are in control more than before. We have all the conditions we need and I think the car can be a winner at 51 per cent of the races this season."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.