The recent engine rule changes agreed for 2017, were predominantly put in place in order to aid smaller teams with engine costs, however the Sahara Force India and Sauber F1 teams have their reservations with the agreement.
The two squads have written a joint letter to the FIA outing their concerns regarding the revisions, which they believe have not gone far enough towards helping the non-factory teams, who are struggling to make it through a F1 season due to the high costs involved in running a successful team.
The Sauber F1 team in particular is feeling the heat right now, having sat out this weeks in-season test session in Barcelona, deeming it pointless as they have no new upgrades to evaluate. Having only just managed to have a car ready in time for the start of the 2016 Formula One season, the Swiss squad need help more than most in the financial department.
Unable to make their voices heard during the meeting held to agree the changes, Bob Fernley, Deputy Team Principal of Force India and Sauber Boss Monisha Kaltenborn spoke with Bernie Ecclestone in Barcelona, as well as meeting with Jean Todt to discuss the matter further. The contents of the communication however, have as yet not been revealed.
Speaking to motorsport.com, Fernley confirmed that a letter had been drafted and sent, and they await a response from F1 Chiefs, “A letter was sent to the FIA and the commercial rights holder, putting our position to them. I’m not going to deny that we sent it, but I’m not going to comment on it either.”
