By Huw Alban
September 13 2002

Yesterday the FIA gave it’s first public reaction to the written explanation submitted by Arrows for it’s actions since the British Grand Prix. On the face of it, it looks as if Arrows have been able to convince the FIA that they are solvent, and are trying to get things in order.

This week has been one in which the team have bought themselves valuable breathing space. On Tuesday a major creditor was paid, preventing a court hearing, and adjourning another for 28 days. This, combined with the FIA’s new attitude of ‘wait and see,’ could give Arrows the time they need to finalise the sale of the team to a mystery American investor.

The FIA issued a short statement yesterday which read:
“The FIA has noted the continuing failure of Orange Arrows to participate in recent Formula One events. If this failure were due to insolvency, Arrows would lose its rights under the Concorde Agreement.

“However, at present the FIA has no hard evidence that Arrows’ absence is due to insolvency, rather than to some other cause. In the circumstances, the FIA intends to wait until various negotiations and proceedings relating to Arrows have been concluded before considering any formal action.”

On another plus note the popular F1 news site, F1.on.net, hosted a recent poll asking it’s visitors whether Arrows should be dropped from the championship. All Arrows fans will be pleased to note that 34% of the vote went for the ‘No way!’ option. On a slight downer, the next highest percentage (27%) voted for the team to be booted out, but it is encouraging to know that a majority of the sport’s fans want Arrows to fight on.

Today saw the first practice sessions for the Italian Grand Prix, with no sign of Arrows at the circuit and, interestingly, no statement from the team either. There has also been little said from the sport’s official bodies suggesting that they are aware of the team’s position and happy with the absense.

Another quiet weekend for Arrows fans then...