Mark Webber against Formula One 'fake rain' proposal

(GETTY IMAGES)

Mark Webber has dismissed Bernie Ecclestone's idea of using 'fake rain' during Formula One grands prix.

Ecclestone has caused a storm of debate this week after proposing the possibility of employing a sophisticated sprinkler system to help liven up the show.

Critics have since poured cold water on the idea, with outspoken Australian Webber joining in the chorus.

Asked whether the sport needed such measures and whether he is in favour, Webber replied: "No and no."

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Webber added:"It can be more exciting when we have some different weather conditions, that does happen.

"But you just think of Jimmy Clark, Jackie Stewart, (Ayrton) Senna and those guys - masters in the wet.

"Jackie's still here, but the other two would be turning in their graves if they thought we'd have sprinklers and hoses lined up around the track.

"It wouldn't be the most sophisticated way to make the show more entertaining."

Ecclestone, however, admits he is "happy to make it happen," even though it has been suggested F1 would become a laughing stock.

Ecclestone added: "My idea is we should make a programme that nobody knows exactly which one is going to be used and it would start at some time during the race. It would effectively be raining.

"It would maybe stop and maybe rain again later. Or maybe not. So nobody would know."