It all started with the International Automobile Federation (FIA) announcing a new set of technical rules for the 2013 season of F1, beginning with the introduction of a brand new 1.6-litre turbocharged engine that would set the stage for an equal competition from that season onwards. That made Volkswagen representative Hans-Joachim Stuck say the “conditions for a possible (F1) entrance of the ... group have been created.”
We're not sure about Audi – although its hard to believe they'll abandon their Le Mans and DTM programmes for a shot in F1 – but Porsche hinted a foray in sports cars, particularly Le Mans, would be a more logical choice for the carmaker than an F1 programme.
“There are undoubtedly some attractive aspects (of F1),” said CEO Matthias Mueller in a recent interview with Swiss car newspaper Automobil Revue. “But there are other sides to it as well. Formula one is very expensive, while success is far less predictable (than in other series).”
In recent years, F1 has made some important steps towards cutting costs in the series, in an effort to attract other carmakers to join the Great Circus. Since the beginning of the economic crisis worldwide, no less than 4 carmakers have left the championship – Honda, Toyota, BMW and Renault – only the French manufacturer staying in F1 as an engine supplier from 2011 onwards.
While urging all the carmakers under VW's ownership to set up a clear and definitive motor racing strategy for the future, Mueller hinted that a potential LMP1 programme may become reality for Porsche.
“We would not necessarily have to line up against Audi, but we would do it if we need to and it would mean there are two of the (VW) group's brands fighting in the races. The likelihood that the group wins would therefore obviously be increased,” he added.
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