Lopez urges team support for 'viable future'

Gerard Lopez, the Lotus F1 team owner, has urged other formula one outfits to "stand together" to make the sport more sustainable.

Caterham has collapsed, Marussia (now Manor) almost followed suit and midfield teams including Lotus F1, Force India and Sauber's financial problems have been well documented.

Even the competitive Williams recorded a $50 million loss last year, while Germany's Auto Motor und Sport claims that "even McLaren" could be in trouble if its Bahraini investors pull out.

"We must now all stand together so that we can develop a concept for the future that is viable," Lopez is quoted as saying.

"The more of us who get behind the plan, the sooner we can get it through."

The Luxembourger may be referring to the proposal made by former FIA president Max Mosley, whereby teams agreeing to a $100 million budget cap are given more rules freedom.

It is already publicly supported by Sauber.

The issue will clearly be front-and-centre when the powerful Strategy Group teams sit down next Thursday.

"Everybody must be anxious that the meeting provides a result," Lopez continued. "Further procrastination would be dangerous."

✅ Check out more posts with related topics: