Ecclestone: Ferrari have discussed breakaway championship

Former boss Bernie Ecclestone has claimed that Ferrari have been in talks about creating their own breakaway sport independent of Formula 1, and that Liberty Media should be listening to their concerns before it is too late.

Ferrari CEO Sergio Marchionne was vocal in his criticism of LIberty Media at the end of last year, demanding that the owners provide clear plans for the sport over the next few years, or he would consider Ferrari's position.

Ferrari's iconic place within Formula 1 sees them given special dispensations, including a bonus payment each year.

Ecclestone said: "Some people have a new series in mind, Sergio has spoken to other people about it.

"The bottom line is simple. Formula One is Ferrari and Ferrari is Formula One.

"If you go and speak to anyone in the world, they don't care about Ferrari road cars.

"I'd hate to see F1 without them."

The 87-year-old also added that if Ferrari were to make concrete plans, then they would find some backers, who are unhappy with the current setup, supporting them through the process.

He claimed: "If a new series started and it had the same elements as there is now, and it was cheaper for the promoters than F1 then they would immediately say 'yes'."

Ecclestone also added that a Vietnam Grand Prix has came on the agenda, and could be added to the race calendar by as soon as 2020.