F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Renault, McLaren and Williams dig in against Force India!

The word solidarity is hard to find in Formula 1's sporting code as Renault, McLaren and Williams are proving once again with an alleged stance against Force India.

Administrations proceedings have begun for the Silverstone-based outfit and should lead to a change of ownership of the beleaguered team.

However, a new owner in F1 - and the registration of a brand new name - entails starting from scratch with regard to prize money, as current rules stipulate that the team, considered as a new entry, would not be entitled to Force India's 2018 revenue stream, estimated to be worth $150 million, nor eligible for F1 prize money in the first couple of years.

Last weekend in Hungary, F1 CEO Chase Carey, pleading a case of 'force majeure', asked that teams agree that Force India's new owners retain the right to the outfit's prize money and TV income.

According to Auto Motor und Sport's Michael Schmidt, three teams rejected Carey's proposition: Renault, Williams and McLaren. An ill-will showed by the trio that could put in jeopardy the sale of Force India.

With Formula 1 still in the trenches devising its rules for 2021 - and a potential revamp of its prize distribution scheme, it's reasonable to assume that the trio is driving a hard bargain and seeking a form of compensation on the regulation front in exchange for its approbation of the Force India deal.

There are no free lunches in Formula 1 as we know. But Renault, Williams and McLaren - three well-endowed teams whose level of performance has been comfortably surpassed by Force India in the past two seasons - may be looking to feast at the expense of the pink outfit and its 406 employees.

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.

Recent Posts

Alpine double-podium in Brazil could deliver $30 million windfall

Alpine’s remarkable double podium at the São Paulo Grand Prix with Esteban Ocon and Pierre…

13 hours ago

F1i's Driver Ratings for the 2024 São Paulo GP

Alexander Albon, Williams (Did Not Start): 5.5/10 Alex Albon is definitely going through something of…

15 hours ago

Jos Verstappen rips British media after Brazilian Max fest

Jos Verstappen wasted no time after his son spectacular win at the São Paulo Grand…

16 hours ago

Leclerc left with ‘mixed feelings’ after disappointing Sao Paulo GP

Charles Leclerc's weekend in Sao Paulo was unfortunately a stark contrast to Ferrari's recent triumphs…

18 hours ago

Back when Kimi knew exactly what he was doing

Twelve years ago on this day, Kimi Raikkonen took a popular win at the 2012…

19 hours ago

Mercedes fined for starting grid tyre pressure infringement

The Mercedes team was hit with a fine by the FIA after Sunday’s Sao Paulo…

20 hours ago