Zoom High stakes as FIA looks to impose massive changes

McLaren boss Martin Whitmarsh on Sunday described the current political climate in Formula One as 'critical'.

Before the Spanish Grand Prix, the teams were locked in a two-hour meeting of the FOTA alliance, following Toyota's suggestion that other competitors may join in not lodging an entry for the 2010 championship.

Afterwards, photographers captured an intense moment between John Howett, who in Barcelona had delivered Toyota's threat, and F1 Chief Executive Bernie Ecclestone.

Also in the paddock this weekend is Donald McKenzie, representing F1's owner CVC.

On behalf of FOTA President Luca di Montezemolo, vice-chairman Howett is understood to have told his fellow teams that a meeting with Max Mosley has been promised ahead of the forthcoming Monaco Grand Prix.

It is also possible that, also before Monaco, the teams will meet for another FOTA get-together.

The flurry of activity has been sparked by the objection to Mosley's rules for 2010, including the highly controversial voluntary budget cap.

Source: GMM
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