Highlights

F1 drivers threaten to boycott Italy GP

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2006-09-09 11:08

Formula One's leading drivers are threatening to boycott the Italian Grand Prix as the widely concerned safety problem of the circuit has been overlooked by the organizers.

The drivers' union, the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA) admitted they had run out of patience on Friday and said they will next week declare that the famous Autodromo Nazionale di Monza is no longer safe and should be thrown off the Grand Prix calendar unless specific safety work is completed.

"We are not kidding. This could be the end unless they get on with it," said Australian Mark Webber.

The decision of forcing the issue was made after circuit director cancelled his planned appearance at a GPDA meeting held following free practice for Sunday's race, the final European event of the season, which may decide the outcome of the drivers' world championship.

Veteran Briton David Coulthard added his voice to the calls for change, said: "The drivers are unanimous. This track is no longer up to the safety standards required in Formula One - even though it falls in line with the FIA requirements."

The drivers are unhappy with the proximity of the barriers at the second chicane, the Variante Della Roggia, and at the Ascari chicane and they also dislike the widespread use of gravel traps instead of tarmac run-off areas.