Circuit bosses agree new promotional pact

Organisers of Grands Prix around the world have got together to form the Formula One Promoters Association, giving themselves a united voice for the irst time.

The man behind the FOPA initiative is Melbourne’s Ron Walker, who also heads up the organisation. Its statutes underline that the aim is to “represent, promote and defend the interests of members”.

At first glance, the new arrangement seems to give the organisers greater weight in their individual dealings with Bernie Ecclestone. The F1 boss denies that’s the case, however, and insists Walker’s aims are supportive.

“He told me it’s better to have an association in case the FIA starts to do silly things against me,” Ecclestone told Motor Sport. “Ron says he put this together to protect me, if I need it.”

Asked how shared knowledge might empower the organisers, Ecclestone added: “I can handle these things and have done for years. I don’t hide secrets from anyone.”