Lola did not join N.Technology/FIA action

UPDATE When asked about the current state of Lola's F1 project Birrane told Racecar Engineering: "We remain in a state of readiness to re-enter Formula One. During 2010 it can be re-activated very quickly indeed. We have the model and base data, production and project plans, a completed chassis bonding jig. We have also kept on some key personnel that were hired for the original plan. Should the opening arise, then Lola is the only company who can fill a space on the grid very quickly with a well designed and competitive F1 car.

"For 2011, the F1 team personnel cap of 280 will come in to force. We certainly welcome that as it fits almost perfectly with the current operation we have in Huntingdon. A Lola Formula One Team would welcome the opportunity to compete in the 2011 World Championship. It could be ready, able and willing to re-activate the program at any time."

And as the team was refused to enter Formula 1 Lola does not wish to sell its F1 project to an other competitor. "At present we are not looking at this option because we believe that another opportunity will arise for Lola F1," Birrane said.

11/19/09 (GMM) Fellow rejected 2010 F1 team entrant Lola has revealed it did not support N.Technology's legal action against the governing FIA.

Italian entrant N.Technology recently lost its court action against the FIA's selection processes, amid wider suggestions the FIA improperly pressured hopeful teams to sign engine supply contracts with Cosworth.

"Well, Lola had an invitation to join this action but refused," Lola's executive chairman Martin Birrane said.

Birrane said Lola signed with Cosworth for 2010 and paid a deposit, but played down the suggestions about the FIA exerting inappropriate pressure.

"Like all the other serious teams, Lola investigated a supply from the FOTA engine manufacturers," he said. "The fact was that there were none available.

"Cosworth engines were available and we were pleased to commit to a contract and pay a deposit. I would say that we also had some external encouragement to do this but there was no real pressure exerted on us," Birrane added.

He did however reveal that he felt Lola was used "as pawns" during the FIA/FOTA breakaway war, but does not rule out making another bid to enter formula one for 2011.

Birrane denied that Lola is looking to sell its 2010 car.

"At present we are not looking at this option because we believe that another opportunity will arise for Lola F1," he stated.