Head of Lola motorsport, Martin Birrane has been quoted as saying at a recent conference:“The announcement that Formula 1 teams may opt for a prudent, financially responsible ‘cost-capped’ regime from 2010 has resulted in us deciding to fully evaluate the opportunity to develop a car to compete in the FIA Formula One World Championship. Providing world-class engineering excellence, offering high-quality solutions governed by a tightly controlled financial regime has been part of Lola’s DNA over the last decade. The current necessity for Formula 1 to adopt a responsible approach in times of economic uncertainty has created the ideal conditions for us to consider developing a car for the world championship. Lola possesses the technical resources, capability and know-how to develop cars capable of competing at the very highest levels of international motor sport, including Formula 1. We are therefore embracing the WMSC’s timely announcements and assessing a relevant programme for F1 with a view to making formal entry in the coming weeks.”
This would all make it seem that Lola are really considering racing. Their last attempt at an F1 campaign ended up going bust before it even started in Australia. Although the cars got there they never turned a wheel! That was back in 1997. Previously in the 60s, 70s and 80s they had limited success in F1. However they have had success in American racing series such as Indy Car and the Le Mans series.
Lola would no doubt be a welcomed addition to a dwindling F1 field. It would seem that the cost capping mooted would be effective in attracting more teams. Let’s hope it does.
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