'Enough time' for scoring system debate

(GMM) As the F1 scoring system saga continues, Norbert Haug insists it should not be a formality that the FIA's rejected proposal is simply deferred until 2010.

Mercedes-Benz's competition chief said he is sure that "constructive conversations" will be staged before next year's championship begins.

The FIA tried to rush its 'winner takes all' system into place for this season, but the teams' FOTA alliance blocked it.

Bernie Ecclestone insists that the introduction has therefore only been delayed, but FOTA is championing its own proposal that simply would give an extra point to grand prix winners.

Haug told the German news agency SID that there is "enough time" for the issue to be discussed before a decision is made for 2010.

"This is not about a power struggle. If the best proposal comes from the FIA, fine, but also those active (in the sport) must be listened to," he insisted.

Haug admits that the flip-flopping of rules is difficult for sponsors and the spectators, but does not think the saga has done any lasting damage to F1.

"The discussions before the start of seasons are always controversial," the German said. "It is nothing new. I don't see any damage done."