Ecclestone warning over McLaren

The FIA, motorsport's governing body, have launched an investigation into the circumstances of world champion Fernando Alonso's win in Monte Carlo amid allegations team-mate Lewis Hamilton, who finished second, was told not to challenge for the lead.

"They could be excluded from the championship or they could have points deducted," Ecclestone told the Daily Mail. "A fine for McLaren, with its money, would not have the same effect as docking points."

Lewis admitted afterwards he was told to "ease off" in his pursuit of the Spaniard with McLaren insisting it was simply part of their strategy.

But if the FIA conclude that the instruction amounted to team orders, banned under their own rules, Ecclestone would like to see the British-based team treated harshly.

Ferrari were fined £500,000 when they were found guilty of issuing team orders after the Austrian Grand Prix in 2002 - and Ecclestone believes that is the least McLaren should expect if they are found against.

"I don't know what the 'team orders' are or were," he added.

"One thing is for sure - if there were team orders which relate to the position of the two drivers -- if somebody is told to move over or hold their position -- it is against all the sporting regulations we have.

"If there were orders, they would be getting off lightly if they get the same sort of fine as Ferrari."

But Ecclestone has ruled out a direct punishment for Hamilton or Alonso, claiming they would not have had a say in the 'manufactured' result. "If there were instructions, it wouldn't be the drivers' fault," he said.