Bernie plays down team quit threats

(GMM) Bernie Ecclestone on Friday played down speculation that the introduction of a standard engine formula could cause teams to leave the sport.

There is no doubt that the rumors in the Shanghai paddock were fuelled by carmaker-backed teams including McLaren-Mercedes, Toyota, BMW and Honda, who are furious with the FIA's announcement of a tender for a third party engine supplier or design by 2010.

But F1's chief executive believes the quit threats are over the top.

"I don't see why they should leave. We're saving them an awful lot of money, I hope.

"All the technical things will still be there, and they can still show all of their talent," Ecclestone said.

The 77-year-old also told reporters that the loss of the French grand prix next year could result in a reshuffle when the final 2009 calendar is published.

"We'll have a look," Bernie said, when asked about the three-week gap that has been created by the Magny Cours absence. "The teams want 17 races, and that's what they've got."