FORMULA One teams were cautious and gave mixed reactions to the overhaul plans unveiled by new owner Liberty as a five-point blueprint for the future.
“It’s a good starting point, but more details are needed,” said champions Mercedes while Williams boss Claire Williams felt it was “time to crack open the champagne.”
The long-awaited plan was feared as the possible cause for a breakaway series led by Ferrari and Mercedes, but Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff said he felt satisfied.
“I think there is room for compromise...”
The headline key point was a planned budget cap, expected to be $150 million to be introduced as part of the new package in 2021.
“That is not really achievable,” said Wolff. “But I think we can work with Liberty on that now.”
Wolff said Mercedes’ budget was “more around 250 million” and a compromise was needed.
There was no early reaction from Ferrari after the day’s two free practice sessions.
Both Ferrari and Mercedes have been reluctant to embrace radical changes to the sport, knowing that with the support of ruling body, FIA, the new owners can introduce their plan without the backing of all 10 teams.