FIA unmoved by teams’ breakaway plans

(GMM) Early on Friday morning, the FIA issued a statement insisting it is unmoved by eight major formula one teams' plans to set up a rival series.

The Paris body, led by its controversial president Max Mosley, said it is "disappointed but not surprised" that the protracted negotiations about income, governance and rules ultimately failed.

"The FIA cannot permit a financial arms race in the championship nor can the FIA allow FOTA to dictate the rules of formula one," part of the statement read.

The FIA said Friday's deadline for five FOTA teams to unconditionally sign up for the 2010 season stands, and that a definitive entry list will be published on Saturday.

Due to disputed agreements, it is likely that Ferrari and the Red Bull teams will again be included on the entry list against their will.

F1 team chiefs met on Thursday night at Renault's Enstone headquarters, and issued its statement about a breakaway championship around midnight.

"The FIA is disappointed but not surprised by FOTA's inability to reach a compromise in the best interests of the sport," the FIA continued.

"It is clear that elements within FOTA have sought this outcome throughout the prolonged period of negotiation and have not engaged in the discussions in good faith."