APRIL 14, 1997

Lola Cars in trouble?

ALTHOUGH there were reports last week that Lola boss Eric Broadley wants to get back into the FIA Formula 1 World Championship later this year, our sources suggest that the entire Lola Cars company is in more financial trouble than had been thought as a result of the abortive Mastercard Lola Formula 1 team. We understand that a team of accountants has now been brought in to establish how the company - the most famous customer racing car business in the world - can be turned around. We have also heard rumors in America that there may be an American bid to help save the Huntingdon company, led by CART team owner Steve Horne.

Team boss Broadley is denying that there are financial difficulties. "The company has taken a bit of a hit," he said, "but there are no problems. I am unconcerned about the situation."