Friends of ex-Formula 1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone indicated the 88-year-old billionaire "is happy to return to work with race promoters in an attempt to solve their problems with the sport's new owners," a disagreement that was "aired in a day-long meeting in London on Tuesday," according to Jonathan McEvoy of the London DAILY MAIL. It is understood F1 CEO Chase Carey "addressed the comments head on" at the start of the gathering at the Royal Automobile Club in Pall Mall. A couple of observers said that Carey was "quite emotional as he urged the disgruntled parties to keep their concerns private" and assured them that he was "happy to work towards resolutions." Another promoter said that he looked "wounded." Ecclestone, the circuit's chair emeritus, said, "If people say I should be involved that is up to them. I am an employee of the company and will do what I am told" (DAILY MAIL, 1/29).
WORKING TOGETHER: REUTERS' Alan Baldwin reported Russian and Mexican GP promoters showed support for Liberty Media on Tuesday. Russian promoter Sergey Vorobyev said that he "did not share FOPA’s point of view and approach," a stance shared by Mexican organizers, who issued a statement "distancing themselves from FOPA’s position." The statement said, "The Mexican Grand Prix’s promoters recognize that the new administration of Formula One has listened and been sensitive to their concerns, with both parties working very closely together" (REUTERS, 1/29).
