The end of the road for FOTA

The Formula One Teams’ Association has officially folded, in a move that had been expected for some time.

A short statement said: “As of the 28th of February 2014 FOTA will be disbanded, as a result of its members’ having re-evaluated their requirements in the face of a changing political and commercial landscape in Formula 1.”

FOTA was formed in 2008 amid much fanfare, and was originally championed by Ferrari boss Luca di Montezemolo. Its key objectives were to to “promote the development of Formula One and enhance its worldwide image and reputation,” and “to represent, defend and promote the interests of its members.”

Recently the organisation had represented the interests of just seven teams, after the defections over the years of Ferrari, Red Bull, Toro Rosso and Sauber. Its influence had diminished accordingly.

With chairman Martin Whitmarsh having given up his team principal role at McLaren FOTA lost further momentum.

The news means the end of the popular FOTA fans’ forums, which gave F1 enthusiasts a rare chance to have their voices heard.