Prodrive considering 2008 options 10 Oct 2007
Prodrive have admitted they are looking at alternative options for the organisation’s planned 2008 Formula One entry, after delays in confirming an expected customer-car arrangement with McLaren.
Prodrive had hoped to use chassis supplied by McLaren for their debut next season, but these plans could be in doubt following a dispute over the legality of customer cars - and hence the team’s entry. The matter will be considered by the International Court of Appeal on October 24.
“We have now passed our self-imposed deadline required to guarantee a competitive and professional start to next year,” said Prodrive in a statement. “The delay in confirming our agreement with McLaren has been created by a challenge to our entry in next year's F1 World Championship as a non-Constructor.”
Prodrive stressed, however, that contrary to reports, negotiations with McLaren had not collapsed, adding that they are committed to participating in Formula One racing and that they predict “the short term issue of eligibility to race in 2008 will be resolved in our favour.”
In the meantime, Prodrive - led by former BAR team boss David Richards - say they will be considering all their alternative options for next season.
