F1 drivers delay signing licences

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Formula One drivers have delayed signing their super licences for the current season following the latest price rise imposed by the FIA.

The cost of the super licence - the document that allows drivers to compete in F1 - has increased from £9,430 to £9,798.

The FIA said the hike was necessary to help cover the escalation in costs of safety measures in the sport.

But the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA) is unhappy at the increase.

The association, which represents the majority of those who race in the sport, although world champion Lewis Hamilton is not a member, has told drivers not to sign their licences until the issue is resolved.

As well as the basic price, the cost of each point has gone up from £1,885 to £1,978.

With a further levy of £2,564 being imposed for compulsory insurance, Lewis Hamilton will have to pay a total of £206,416 to compete in this year's Championship.

FIA president Max Mosley has apparently indicated he will consider the matter, but only if the drivers provide proof of income.

The GPDA has now asked the Formula One Teams' Association to look into the issue at its next meeting early next month.