Ferrari denies threats to quit F1 despite comments by president
During an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Ferrari chariman Luca di Montezemolo voiced his frustration regarding Formula One's new regulations, resulting in many believing the legendary racing team could potentially quit the league.
"Formula One isn't working. It's declining because [the Federation International d'Automobile, the sport's governing body] have forgotten that people watch the racing for the excitement. Nobody watches racing for the efficiency, come on," di Montezemolo stated via his interview.
Despite his statements towards Formula One, Ferrari released a statement via its official website, stating the media exaggerated and created speculation regarding Ferrari's future, revealing the team remains focused on improving Formula One.
Ferrari's statement reads:
Some elements of the media have suggested Ferrari would quit Formula 1 to concentrate on the Le Mans 24 Hours and Endurance racing. This is a bit of a stretch based on President Luca di Montezemolo reiterating that Formula 1 needs to evolve and renew itself, while also admitting that there is a unique to the 24 Hour race.
To say that after 2020, Ferrari could quit Formula 1 to concentrate on Le Mans and the Endurance championship takes his words to extremes. Plus of course, there's nothing to stop Ferrari upping the ante and competing in both disciplines. So it's just pure speculation.
Ferrari is struggling mightily during the 2014 season, trailing leader Mercedes by an astonishing 171 points in the constructors' standings.