BMW quits F1

...and another one bites the dust. BMW has become the newest member to hand itself the pink slip from F1, becoming the second major car manufacturer after Honda to quit F1. BMW will complete the current season before withdrawing from the top flight, though it will continue to be involved in motorsport through its campaigns in other series. The company released a statement saying that F1 was no longer a viable project with regards to the development of the company in the direction of sustainability and environmental compatibility and that 'resources freed up as a result are to be dedicated to the development of new drive technologies and projects in the field of sustainability.'

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BMW returned to F1 by collaborating with Williams in 2000 before splitting up with Williams and buying out Sauber to set up their own team in 2006. They did show gradual improvement over the last couple of seasons, with Robert Kubica taking their maiden victory last year and finishing fourth in the championship. Much was expected from the Mario Thiessen-led squad this year, but somehow the team has not been able to recreate its performances of last season and has scored just eight points this season, standing eighth in the championship. Well, so long, then. Hope you're back soon!