I would take this with a huge pinch of salt. Yes, when you run a multi million $$$ business, there are bound to be tensions between the top brass. But, is it just me or did i detect more than a little sensationalism in that article. If you read through some of the other articles posted, you will find a similar pattern.
I am no mind reader, but applying the formula of 1+1=2, let me point out a few facts:
1. The article seems to give the impression that Ferrari was the only option for Schumacher to continue racing. Let me tell you that if he believed that he could race on at his best for a few more years, there would be a queue of team principals at his doorstep.
2. He still remains on a Ferrari retainer. If his relationship with Montezemolo had soured to such a low level, would he have bothered coming back to the pitlane again??
3. Ok, so Kimi and Schumy dont seem to have hit it off this year, but did you ever see Schumy and Damon Hill hugging each other after every race? Massa was Schumy's understudy even before he raced for them.
4. Flavio Briatore was talking to Raikonnen's agent no doubt. But, he had remarked soon after Alonso announced his Mclaren deal that he would have no hesitation in putting Kovaleinen, his ward-in-waiting, in a race car. So he had options too.
5. The Italians tend to be graphic and yes, politicking is in their blood. But let me tell you, they are in the money making business for real. In the end, Luca and Todt make decisions for the best interests of the organisation.
Of course, there is no smoke without fire. Intrigue and drama are part of the arena called Formula 1. But lets keep Machiavelli, Nero and Don Corleone out of it shall we? |