The Formula One Teams’ Association (FOTA) is continuing to weaken after Lotus co-owner Gerard Lopez admitted his outfit considered leaving.
At the end of 2011, Ferrari and Red Bull quit the association. They were shortly followed by Sauber and Toro Rosso, whilst HRT left at the end of 2010.
Had Lotus quit, and they still may according to Lopez, just six teams would remain members, half the grid, which would likely bring an end to the group.
“I think everybody else has [thought about leaving FOTA],” said Lopez. “We’ve certainly considered it, but we haven’t decided yet what we’re going to do.”
Meanwhile, FOTA chairman and McLaren team principal Martin Whitmarsh, has hinted that the group may break up after admitting the FOTA brand isn’t important, what’s more important is that the teams continue to work together in the best interests of the sport.
“I’m not too hung up on the brand ‘FOTA’,” said Whitmarsh. “I think what’s important is that the teams realise there are critical issues within this sport where it will be better if we cooperate and take sensible decisions, and I hope and believe that we’ll continue to do that.”
The next FOTA fans’ forum is planned for February 29th in Barcelona in which Ferrari and HRT are sending representatives.
