Mercedes to quit F1?
2012-05-07 10:34
MERCEDES BEST SEASON YET: Mercedes has had a bumpy ride in F1 over the past two years, but in 2012 it seems their fortunes have changed with driver Nico Rosberg achieving the team's maiden Grand Prix victory in China.
Team Mercedes is "on the verge" of quitting Formula 1, at least according to an article by F1 correspondent Kevin Eason.
In an article published by the London newspaper The Times, Eason claims that rival teams Ferrari, McLaren and Red Bull will get to appoint directors once F1 is floated on the Singapore exchange. Mercedes, however, has not been extended the same offer.
F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone said: "Why should Mercedes have the same deal as the others? What have they done in F1? They won a race and that is it."
F1 STOCK AT RISK?
Based on Ecclestone's attitude, Eason argues that Mercedes is "on the verge of quitting F1", having reportedly conducted a study into how the team could be withdrawn.
Eason also quoted Ecclestone as having "scoffed" at the suggestion that if Mercedes left the sport F1's stock could lose 20% in its value.