2011 Australian Grand Prix engulfed in disputes
The 2011 Australian Grand Prix that is expected to take place at the legendary Albert Park Circuit is under a huge threat after some disputes between the event organisers and CAMS (Confederation of Australian Motorsports).
After CAMS was asked to lower the fees for organising the event, CAMS refused to do so and due to this dispute, the 2011 Australian Grand Prix is under threat. The concerned authorities at CAMS have asked the FIA to come to a conclusion before 19 November
or the race will be dropped from the Formula 1 calendar or at least its expected date.
“What we are saying is that CAMS has got to comply with all the other suppliers of services, and that is what CAMS are - a supplier of services. So under a process they have to tender their price,” Australian Grand Prix boss Ron Walker told the
media.
The FIA has tried to negotiate with CAMS about this matter but it seems that the organisers are not willing to do anything in favour of the FIA’s decision and as a result, the only option FIA has is to pay the designated cost according to CAMS.
“They are a monopoly, and the government will not stand for monopolies. Most countries will not have monopolies anymore and neither will the competitions' commission in Brussels. They are opening a Pandora's Box in a big way by doing this,” according to
the FIA.
Walker flew to Abu Dhabi in order to take some advice and work with his associates including Bernie Ecclestone. It seems that the seriousness of this situation is way beyond our imagination but Ron claims that he is not worried about this matter since Jean
Todt and Bernie Ecclestone are also involved in this matter. Since such big powers are handling this matter, the two organisations will come up with an amicable solution before time, therefore, Ron is taking it easy for now.
Ecclestone is currently in a very strong position since he has a deal with the Victorian Government but there is a possibility that Walker might even ditch CAMS and bring in an entirely new team to setup the race.
“There are plenty of organisers that would be delighted to come down under and be approved by the FIA. We believe we are being overcharged for the services being provided, and you can't be holier than thou to say: ‘it is my service, you have to pay for it’,”
he said.
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