However, Branson did not let go of the idea of taking over or financing a Formula One team. With 3 new entries to make the grid next year, Virgin is likely to orientate to a smaller team, as the sponsorship prices for 2010 will be accordingly.
“We got in when it was very cheap and it's been great for us with global coverage, but I suspect next year the price will be astronomical and we may have to look somewhere else with a smaller team,” Branson was quoted as saying by BBC Five Live.
Virgin Group has partnered the Brackley based team since the very Australian Grand Prix, offering Ross Brawn's outfit some $250,000 per race through the duration of the ongoing season. However, as the team's CEO Nick Fry himself revealed a few weeks ago, the sponsorship fees for Brawn GP will go up for the upcoming year, with many investors currently lined up up for a future deal.
Before the start of this season, Branson insisted that the sport should become cleaner in order for him to become team owner inside the Great Circle. Although heavily linked with a Brawn GP takeover during the first few Grands Prix, owning a Formula One organization now seems out of the question.
He also had a piece of advice for the personalities that are currently involved in the dispute for rule supremacy in F1, while showing his willingness to help in any way possible.
“I think that certain of those personalities on both sides need to know the art of compromise and sense needs to prevail. If I can do anything to help I'd certainly be interested in doing so,” added Branson.
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