Mar.6 (GMM) Jean Todt sounds unlikely to agree to any major revisions to F1’s current engine regulations.
F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone has led the charge for the quiet and controversial turbo V6s to be scrapped.
And even Niki Lauda, team chairman of the ultra-dominant Mercedes team, thinks the technical regulations need to be revamped.
He said the aggressive-looking drawings of Ferrari’s ‘concept’ car were “interesting”.
“These cars we have now are so comfortable even 17-year-olds can drive them,” Lauda told the Austrian press. “Formula one must be uncomfortable again.”
FIA president Todt, however, insists the V6 rules are going nowhere.
“I feel it is one of the few sensible decisions which has been taken over the last period,” the Frenchman told the New York Times, arguing that the sport’s new hybrid credentials are crucial.
“Formula one is the pinnacle of motor sport, so we must be an example to society. It is not all happening in a kind of closed golden-gated community where nothing is happening on the other side of the world,” added Todt.
However, the V6 rules are undoubtedly expensive, particularly at a time when Caterham has collapsed, Marussia is clinging to survival and even midfield teams are obviously struggling.
Todt insists F1 remains strong, saying the problem of collapsing teams “has always happened”.
“In 2016 we have a new team coming,” he said, referring to Haas, “and we may make a tender again for one or two teams to encourage teams. And try to reduce the costs.”