Formula One team chiefs and drivers yesterday refused to confirm the sport was splitting and that a new breakaway series will take place next year.
Despite statements to that effect from both the rebel teams and the ruling body, there was no final confirmation and many in the paddock at the British Grand Prix suggested more negotiations would take place.
Even after the announcement by the Formula One Teams Association's rebel teams, stating that they intended to set up their own series, it seemed people involved still felt a solution was possible – and that commerical ringmaster Bernie Ecclestone was the key.
Red Bull team chief Christian Horner said: "Bernie Ecclestone is in a tricky position. He does not like the rules but it's effectively his business. He's in a situation where his key assets are saying they can't enter.
"If anybody can deliver a solution to all this, he's the only man who can. But it isn't forthcoming at the moment. It's a shame.
"Formula One is one of the most popular sports in the world and we have a duty to care for its future and of course for the fans and our employees. But you know, as they say, never say never."
Adrian Sutil of Force India, one of the two teams signed up to race for the FIA's world championship next year, is optimistic: "Every day we have had a different story of this. I just hope there is a solution. A split is not good for Formula One."
The FIA confirmed it has started legal proceedings against FOTA.
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