Ferrari listed for 2010 but may still drop out

Hurriyet Daily News with wires

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The powerful Italian outfit was one of 13 teams included on the FIA entry list, but five of these submitted conditional entries.

The confirmed entry list was: Ferrari, Toro Rosso, Red Bull, Williams, Force India, McLaren-Mercedes, BMW Sauber, Renault, Toyota and Brawn GP, all of which competed in 2009, plus newcomers Campos, USF1 and Manor.

The five teams remaining on conditional terms were: McLaren-Mercedes, BMW Sauber, Renault, Toyota and Brawn GP.

"The FIA has invited them to lift those conditions following further discussions to be concluded not later than close of business on Friday, June 19," the FIA statement said. Ferrari reiterated its position in forceful terms after the announcement. "For the avoidance of any doubt, Ferrari reaffirms that it shall not take part in the 2010 Formula One world championship under the regulations adopted by the FIA in violation of Ferrari's rights under a written agreement with the FIA," the Italian team said.

Red Bull said in a separate statement that its entry was submitted as a conditional one and both its teams were committed to the teams' association FOTA.

The maximum number of cars permitted to enter the 2010 Championship has been increased to 26, two from each competitor.

The new teams were lured by a voluntary budget cap of 40 million pounds ($65.8 million) cap for the next season. The cap will give smaller teams more engine and design freedom. The FIA has been in dispute with FOTA over the proposed budget and other plans for the future of the sport.

Ferrari and other teams unhappy with the proposed changes had threatened not to enter the 2010 world championships and talks aimed at breaking the deadlock have been underway for the last few weeks.

In the end they submitted an entry to keep to the deadline, but in a complex battle of wills, the team's inclusion on the 2010 entry list does not necessarily mean they will actually compete as their lawyers are still haggling over the terms laid down by the FIA.

And there were doubts also hanging over the five conditional teams who are expected to pursue their negotiation with the FIA.

The FIA statement said that there would be further talks with other teams interested in joining the Formula One ranks should any of the five conditional teams decide not to take part by the June 19 deadline.