Therefore, the teams that were unable to secure a place in Formula One a few months ago as part of FIA's initial scrutinizing process now have a second chance. Until now, it is believed Epsilon Euskadi are the only ones really interested in applying for a 2010 entry, although the FIA has officially asked all former applicants to submit their new bids.
That includes Prodrive, Lola, March, Brabham, Lotus and Team Superfund. However, due to the unusual claims that followed the teams' initial bid a few months ago – when they accused the FIA for picking only the teams who had secured a prior deal with British engine manufacturer Cosworth – this new process is likely to become more difficult.
According to British newspaper The Guardian, it seems Epsilon Euskadi's team boss Joan Villadelprat is already at full speed at taking BMW's place in F1.
“To take BMW's place would be difficult, but if a vacancy becomes available we will be there. I am in permanent contact with the FIA and Ecclestone. I am sure that we will be in F1, I don't know if it's in a week, a month or a year,” Villadelprat was quoted as saying by the aforementioned newspaper.
BMW's and Peter Sauber's attempt to save the Hinwil based team have failed during the course of last week, and the Swiss outfit was unable to sign the new Concorde Agreement. However, should the 65-year old Swiss manage to somehow safeguard his team, it is believed they will have a privileged status in retaining their spot in 2010 also.
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