• 2014 regulations

Ecclestone wants new engine regulation scrapped

Bernie Ecclestone remains against the new engines but doesn't blame current FIA president Jean Todt © Press Association

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Bernie Ecclestone has repeated his desire to postpone the 2014 engine regulations and says he thinks FIA president Jean Todt "will get rid of it."

The FIA has introduced a new 1.6-litre V6 engine regulation from 2014 onwards in an attempt to create more economical units. Ecclestone has long held reservations over the impact that the change will make, specifically referencing the sounds of the new engines as a major concern. Ecclestone has now told the Hindustan Times that even Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo is against the new engine being introduced despite it already being tested.

"I listened to the noise of the engines in (Ferrari's headquarters at) Maranello the other day, the new engine and the old engine, and even Luca di Montezemolo said it sounded terrible and didn't like it," Ecclestone said. "(Todt) will get rid of it. I think Luca is also saying we should suspend it for two or three years. I think it is sensible to get rid of it and stick with what we have got. It is much cheaper than the new one. It probably could be 30% of the price.

"I blame the FIA for this stupid engine formula. It really wasn't [Todt's] fault, (former FIA president Max) Mosley started the engine and then he got carried away... Todt really hasn't interfered with us. He has been travelling the world and seeing all the different federations but he hasn't bothered us."

Ecclestone has support from the Formula One Promoters Association (FOPA), with chairman Ron Walker saying the difference in sound would "appal" the circuits.

"The circuits would be appalled if they went ahead with that new engine now, particularly if there is no guarantee the sound will be the same," Walker said. "The circuits will all support Bernie in his quest to keep the same engine because it will mean great savings in the cost burden of running the sport."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.