'Ferrari can't afford to lose Formula 1'

'Ferrari can't afford to lose Formula 1'

Originally written by Joas van Wingerden. This version is a translation.

Saturday 11 November 2017 13:01

Red Bull team boss Christian Horner has downplayed speculation that Ferrari plans to quit Formula 1 over new engine regulations.

The new owners of the sport, Liberty Media, have created a proposal for 2021 which would see a reduction in production costs and a more level playing field among the constructors. Ferrari took exception to this and claimed that if drastic changes were made, they would consider their position within F1.

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“If we change the sandbox to the point where it becomes an unrecognisable sandbox, I don’t want to play anymore,” said their president. Sergio Marchionne.

However, despite these perceived warnings, Horner believes that Ferrari are simply flexing their muscles and that, ultimately, they need Formula 1 just as much as the sport needs them.

“They’ll bluster that they don’t need Formula One, but what other form of motor racing is going to give Ferrari the platform that Formula One does?” the Red Bull boss told Sky Sports F1.

“The two go hand-in-hand together and have done since the beginning of the championship.

“Nobody wants to lose Ferrari. And I don’t think Ferrari can afford to lose Formula One."

The Scuderia are the only ever-present team throughout the history of F1 but until relations between them and Liberty Media improve, the prospect of an exit remains.