A characteristically ebullient Bernie Ecclestone has spoken out about McLaren’s upcoming appearance before the World Motor Sport Council later this month, and it’s not pretty. Follow the jump for more.

The issue being raised now is whether or not McLaren has tarnished the good name of Formula One in the eyes of the world. While they were penalized for their part in what some have termed “Liargate” at Melbourne, and while their then-sporting director David Ryan has since been let go by the team, apparently that’s not enough. Said Bernie:

“It is about stealing a point and a place but those are worth money so basically it is fraud, although I am sure it started off more innocently without thought of the consequences.

“There are many options open if the charge sticks and it would be a terrible thing if any team were banned from races.

“But it could happen.”

Elsewhere, from the land of extreme rumourville comes a rather interesting idea that I’m going to relay to you now—but I must stress that there are NO official sources announcing this to be factual in any way. Ready?

Apparently, Réseau des Sports has mentioned a rumour going around the paddock at Melbourne about Abu Dhabi being seriously behind in construction. They said that the new track is so seriously behind, in fact, that it might not be ready for its debut as the finale of the 2009 season. Furthermore, there was supposition that Montreal might be put back on the calendar to replace it, should that happen. Obviously, if such a magnificent thing did occur, we’d let you know as soon as we found out.

There’s something to have pleasant dreams about, though—a season finale for what’s shaping up to be a very exciting season held at the Circuit du Gilles Villeneuve. What could possibly be better?

[ITV F1 and Onestopstrategy.com]