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Webber: We need to speak to Bernie

Friday 20th June 2008

Mark Webber reckons the F1 drivers should take their grievances over the cost of super licences to Bernie Ecclestone.

The drivers, together with the Grand Prix Drivers' Association, are unhappy with this year's increase in their super licence fees, which has seen the basic cost go up from 1,725 euros last year to 10,000 euros this year.

Added to that the drivers are also billed for each point they score. The cost of that has increased from 456 euros per point to 2,000.

So far the drivers have not spoken with the FIA with the GPDA claiming that motosport's governing body has refused to hear their complaints. This prompted talk of a strike at the next grand prix in Britain.

However, Webber says that rather than striking the drivers should speak with F1 supremo Ecclestone about the situation.

"It's absolutely clear that we are not happy with the super licence situation and how much they charge, but I find it very unrealistic that we won't race," Webber told Autosport.

"We should just have a chat with Bernie. He's got common sense, and we should see what he says. Let's see if we can improve the situation and make it a bit more professional."

Webber, a director of the GPDA, explained why the drivers were unhappy, saying they were not consulted by the FIA before the price of racing was put up.

"They (the FIA) just decided between themselves and then sent an invoice to the drivers. We had our hands tied behind our backs and it was agreed by none of the drivers," he said.

"We are being charged that amount and we will be charged that amount."

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