BMW confirm shock Formula One exit

[John S]

The question of the future of the BMW engine remains.

Will BMW become a supplier?

NO, according to this report on F1-live.

BMW will not remain in Formula One even to supply its V8 engines to customer teams, board member Klaus Draeger insists.

"No. We will not be available in the forthcoming season as an engine supplier," he said in Munich on Wednesday.

BMW's decision to withdraw from Formula One follows that of Honda late last year, and amid rumours Toyota and Renault may soon follow.

However BMW motorsport boss Mario Theissen said he does not get the feeling that more manufacturers are set to depart.

"We spoke all together last weekend in Budapest," said the German, referring to the team alliance also comprising Ferrari, Mercedes, Toyota and Renault.   
 
"I did not get the impression that similar decisions are approaching with other teams or manufacturers, but of course only the teams themselves can say that for sure."

[david1275]

Just shows that BMW don't want their brand or products associated with any team that is not on top.

'Ultimate Driving Machine' sounds a bit lame at the back of the grid.

[lkjohnson1950]

True! I doubt BMW would be in such a rush to depart if they were hotly contending for either title. I've heard speculation that Todt's being Max's heir apparent was the final blow.

Lonny

[Scott]

I've heard speculation that Todt's being Max's heir apparent was the final blow.

That's something they could have worked through with FOTA.  They will obviously have more power as long as they stick together, but with BMW pulling out and Renault likely to follow right away, that will seriously erode FOTA's power.  Hopefully the new teams will see that they need to show a strong united stand against the FIA's antics and join in.

The Swiss papers are filled with the news, and people here generally hope that Hinwil can be saved by someone, if not Peter Sauber.

[cosworth151]

'Ultimate Driving Machine' sounds a bit lame at the back of the grid.

It sounds even more lame if they're afraid to even show up.

[Scott]

'Ultimate Driving Machine' sounds a bit lame at the back of the grid.

It sounds even more lame if they're afraid to even show up.

No kidding!