Formula One facing huge upheaval

LONDON, England (CNN) -- Formula One's governing body has issued its clearest threat to Bernie Ecclestone's grip on the sport by suggesting a host of changes.

The FIA, which met in Paris Wednesday, said it was going to review the sport's governance and consult the teams on changes to its management.

"The FIA will enter into a wide-ranging consultation with the Formula One teams to examine plans for improved efficiency, including new technical regulations for the Championship," the FIA said in a statement.

"This will also involve a review of the governance of Formula One."

It failed to raise the entry fees for next season by as much as expected -- setting them at $465,000, a three percent increase on 2008 -- but indicated further hikes were in the offing.

"The FIA will launch a consultation with the Formula One teams for the introduction of further fees to cover improved safety systems and equipment at every Grand Prix."

It also revealed a plan to introduce a new feeder series for Formula One

"This championship, called Formula Two, would be launched in 2009 and used as an inexpensive platform to develop emerging driver talent for Formula One. It is hoped this can be achieved within a budget of around €200,000 a car per season," the FIA said.

Formula One has been moving from one battle to the next since FIA president Max Mosley fought off concerns about a sex scandal to retain his position earlier this month.

Ecclestone and McLaren boss Ron Dennis were quick to suggest a breakaway competition was a possibility and drivers are furious about hikes in their license fees.

Mosley has been pushing for the FIA to take greater control of the sport, while Ecclestone -- whose company controls the sport's wealth -- has warned his old friend that he'll fight any proposals that impact on how the spoils are divided.

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