War of Words Reignite As the Sports Character of F1 Is Ressurected

With all this FOTA unity, and a united front opposing Max, F1 had become a Sleeping Beauty or Snow White.  Over the past few months Ferrari has “held hands” with McLaren, an idea that has made Enzo turn in his grave. 

But now that there is peace in our times, this wonderful image of paradise is no more. 

There is still a FOTA, but it seems that now that a goal has been reached, the image of peace and unity has been replaced by the off track rivalry that has been so prevalent throughout F1’s colorful history. 

“Aerodynamics are for people who can't build engines,” is a quote that defines Enzo’s views about Lotus and all the other manufacturers.  Yet when compared against the quotes released this past week the comment is quite tame:

"Guess who opposed the test with the F60?" read a brief statement on Ferrari's website.  "A team that hasn't won anything for years and yet didn't pass over the opportunity to demonstrate once more a lack of spirit of fair play.  But it seems even in this instance someone decided to stick to the precise wording of the regulations." 

While Williams may have been un-sporting in their decision to deny Michael a test of the F60 who can really blame the blue-and-white?  The team’s membership in the FOTA was revoked without question or consideration; however Ferrari has been well known for its strong responses against those opposing their ideas and views. 

The Stepney-gate affair, as well as the diffuser-gate affair are the most recent examples of Ferrari shooting first and asking questions later; in each case Ferrari representatives, be it lawyers, ex-team members, or current team members have accused the opposing sides of everything from dishonoring the sport to outright cheating and lying. 

Ferrari is not alone in this boat; Flavio Briatore, Jackie Stewart, Fernando Alonso, Eddie Jordan, members of McLaren, and so many more have all made strong accusations regardless if their words are simple opinions or valid points. 

While the comments are uttered to cast a spotlight on certain matters or bring their author to the forefront they add a spice to the sport.

When Federer won the fifteenth grand-slam, Roddick’s post-match comments confirmed that every sport has its trash talk, football (be it soccer or the gridiron), basketball, boxing, and even tennis all feature trash talk. 

There is proper trash talk, such as telling the opposing team that they will suffer a heavy defeat, in not so proper words, and improper trash talk where nation’s flags are burned or tarnished.

Trash talk is part of any sport; it pumps teams and fans alike—The classic F1 trash talk has been missed in the sport. 

While the F1 community has benefited by a united front to get things done, that battle is now over, and it is time to focus on the real war.  The business has been concluded, the company contract extended, and the future of the sport has been secured. 

It is time for the gloves to come off and the sport replaces the business, on track and in the daily columns.