Howett: "Ecclestone's attacks will not divide FOTA"

Bernie Ecclestone's harsh reply to Luca Cordero di Montezemolo could have been a move aimed at dividing FOTA, the alliance of F1 teams. This is the suspicion of John Howett, president of Toyota and vice-president of the Formula One Teams Association.

After the desire expressed by Montezemolo regarding a restructuring of the management of F1's commercial rights, Ecclestone accused the Italian of hypocrisy by revealing that Ferrari receives "80 million more" than the other teams in the event of victory in the world championship.

"He was probably trying to split FOTA but all the information given is transparent and known to all members, it was not news as everyone is aware of Ferrari's historic status," Howett explained to The Times.

According to FIA president Max Mosley, FOTA's unity has not yet been put to the test: "I think the teams are more united now because there are external pressures on F1. but the real test will come when there are significant differences of opinion or when vital interests are threatened."