Renault Leaves the GPMA

Renault today announced that it was leaving the Grand Prix Manufacturers Association. The GPMA is a group of the car manufacturers that are involved in Formula 1. It was created in order to fight for the rights of the teams against the sport's promoter and the International Automobile Federation, the sport's governing body. For several years it threatened a breakaway series. But last year many of the GPMA's objectives were met - such as a better financial deal regarding the sport's television money - and two of the manufacturers involved in the GPMA, Toyota and Ferrari, withdrew from the group. That was part of its reason for leaving the organization, Renault said.

"In order to achieve constructive dialogue with the FIA on the future direction of the sport, it is important to work in consultation with all manufacturers participating in Formula 1, including Ferrari and Toyota," the team said in a statement. "Renault has reinforced its long-term commitment to the sport through an engine supply deal with Red Bull Racing beginning in 2007, and looks forward to collaborating with its fellow manufacturers and the FIA on a future vision for the sport that will: produce an improved on-track show; and generate meaningful cost reductions for the long-term sustainability of the sport."