Bernie flips F1 into GP1
THE future of Formula One is in doubt again after billionaire boss Bernie Ecclestone began preparations for a new series called GP1.
Trademark applications for logos to ‘GP1 Series’ and ‘GP1’ have been filed by Epsilon Ltd, an offshoot of Mr Ecclestone’s business empire.
F1’s top names, including British champion Lewis Hamilton’s McLaren team and Ferrari, have threatened to leave the sport next year in a row over plans to put a cap on budgets.
By creating an entirely new series for the teams, Mr Ecclestone could bypass the unpopular proposal by Max Mosley, the president of F1’s governing body, and leave the sport in tatters.
Mr Ecclestone’s company also bid for trademark ownership of the words ‘Formula Grand Prix’ and ‘Formula GP’.
The applications – which cover sporting events, broadcasting and clothing – were made on June 19, the same day that the top eight F1 teams announced they would set up their own rival series.
Epsilon also owns the trademark rights to logos for the GP3 Series which is being launched next year as a low-cost entry into motorsport.
Protecting logos in this way is an important step in the preparation of a new sports series – and proves that the plans are at a developed stage.
The revelations will pile pressure on FIA boss Mr Mosley, who faced fierce criticism over his plans to cut back team spending from £185million to £40million.
He threatened to sue the rebel teams but dropped the legal action within days, reportedly due to pressure from Ecclestone’s companies.
An uneasy truce was called after Mr Mosley shelved the unpopular plans for budget restrictions and announced that he would not put himself forward for re-election when his term as president ends in October.
