Oct.10 (GMM) James Vowles’ push to give lower-ranked teams more spending freedom under Formula 1’s cost cap is facing resistance from some of the sport’s biggest teams.
The Williams boss wants a mechanism linked to championship position or points, allowing teams further down the order greater scope to invest in infrastructure and close the gap.
Toto Wolff said he has “super sympathy” for Williams’ position, but made clear he is not convinced by a sliding-scale system.
“Personally, I don’t like the concept of adjustment based on some positions,” said the Mercedes boss and co-owner.
“Do we really want another mechanism where you’re being allowed to have more CapEx, OpEx based on your championship position?”
“I’m not sure.”
Wolff argued that Formula 1 already has catch-up mechanisms through aerodynamic testing restrictions and power unit development allowances.
He also pointed to McLaren as evidence that a struggling team can recover without extra financial assistance.
“McLaren is a very good example,” said the Austrian.
“A team that wasn’t owned by a big mothership that had endless funding like some of us, but able to work yourself out of a situation that wasn’t good.”
Indeed, Zak Brown was similarly cautious about Vowles’ proposal.
“I think the biggest difference in racing teams are the people, the culture,” said the McLaren CEO.
“We’ve got a customer engine, all these things which you hear over the years you can’t win a championship with, and we have.”
Brown said he remains open to discussion but stressed that the grid is already highly competitive.
“Always open-minded,” said the Californian. “But I think if you look last year, it was the closest grid in the history of Formula 1.”
Even Red Bull-owned Racing Bulls, which could theoretically benefit from the proposal, is not enthusiastic.
Alan Permane said: “I don’t think we would support a wholesale change to the cost cap rules to start being able to spend huge amounts more money.”
“I think it’s served Formula 1 very, very well. Maybe there are tweaks to do, for sure.”
The proposal is expected to be discussed at the next F1 Commission meeting, where Vowles will need sufficient team support for any change to move forward.
There are motorsport events, and then there is the Indianapolis 500, the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing." Next year marks Grand Prix Tours' 42nd Indianapolis 500 tour and our decades of experience and local connections provide exclusive access that few fans ever enjoy, including police escorts on race day, a Dallara IndyCar Factory tour, Gasoline Alley and Legends Day, the Driver Introduction Ceremony, and a private dinner with former Indy driver Derek Daly. Combined with excellent hotel accommodations, seamless event planning, and Grand Prix Tours' signature service, this is far more than a race weekend; it's a once-in-a-lifetime motorsport experience. With tour spaces limited each year, we encourage you to reserve your place early for the 111th Indianapolis 500.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Formula 1 at its most iconic with an unforgettable trip to the 2027 Grand Prix de Monaco. Feel the excitement as the world’s best drivers race through the legendary streets of Monte Carlo, surrounded by superyachts, Mediterranean views, and the unmistakable glamour of Monaco. From incredible race viewing to carefully selected accommodations, Grand Prix Tours brings you closer to the action at one of the most prestigious and spectacular events in all of motorsport.
SHOW PACKAGES
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the ultimate test of speed, strategy, and endurance. Watch the world's top manufacturers battle for 24 nonstop hours in one of motorsport's most prestigious events. With Grand Prix Tours handling your accommodations, transfers, and ticket options, all that's left is to experience this unforgettable bucket-list race.
SHOW PACKAGES
Feel the roar of Formula 1 at its spiritual home. Silverstone is one of the fastest and most demanding circuits in the world, where brave overtakes, lightning-fast direction changes, and flat-out commitment separate the best from the rest. Combined with the electric atmosphere created by hundreds of thousands of passionate fans, the British Grand Prix delivers a race weekend unlike any other.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience the thrill of the Canadian Grand Prix with Grand Prix Tours! Feel the excitement of Formula 1 as the world's best drivers battle it out on Montreal's iconic Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve. Explore the vibrant city, enjoy unforgettable race weekend experiences, and soak up the electric atmosphere. Make your Canadian Grand Prix getaway one to remember with our exclusive travel packages. Secure your spot today!
SHOW PACKAGES