The Swiss outfit will therefore replace departed Toyota in the Formula One roster, as the Japanese manufacturer chose to end their F1 operations at the end of 2009. However, no verdict on the Toyota situation has been issued, as the Cologne based outfit was investigated by the ruling body for breach of contract.
“The FIA has written to inform BMW Sauber AG that their application for an entry in the 2010 FIA Formula One World Championship has been successful. Subject to their signing the Concorde Agreement, BMW Sauber will be awarded the 13th entry in the Championship, taking the place of the departing Toyota team,” said a statement from the FIA.
“The FIA has worked closely with the Commercial Rights Holder and the teams involved over recent weeks and is grateful for their support in achieving the best outcome for the sport. An updated Formula One entry list will be published in due course,” added the press release.
That means the BMW – Peter Sauber buyout has now been finalized, as the German manufacturer revealed only the FIA granting the Hinwil based team an entry to the 2010 championship would seal the selling process. From now on, the Swiss owner will have the liberty to look for new drivers for the 2010 campaign, sign new sponsors and, consequently, return to the Formula One Teams Association (FOTA).
It is believed the team will be designated the 26 and 27 race car numbers for 2010, while Ferrari's Giancarlo Fisichella may be Sauber's new target for a race driver in the next few weeks.
Google News