<I>Formula 1 Magazine</I> moves 'in house'.

As expected, Bernie Ecclestone's Formula One Management [FOM] organisation has confirmed that it has acquired Formula 1 Magazine from previous publisher European Press.

Following much rumour and speculation surrounding the future of the magazine, FOM has issued a statement confirming that it has taken over both the magazine and the associated end-of-season Formula 1 Annual hardback with immediate effect, and will be announcing the appointment of a new editor, following the departure of founder Tom Rubython, imminently.

In the coming months, FOM arm Formula One Publishing aims to develop the Formula 1 Magazine title into the official F1 publication, building on the publication's strong current UK subscriber base, as well as broadening its appeal overseas. As a result, non-English versions of the magazine are planned.

Additionally, an on-line dimension will also be developed with the relaunch of Formula1.com as the official grand prix website next year. The site is currently out of action while its future is drawn up.

"Formula 1 Magazine has already established itself as a strong title, and Tom Rubython has done a super job in establishing it," commented FOM CEO Ecclestone, "I am sorry that he has moved on, and we wish him all the best.

"We are pleased to have brought Formula 1 Magazine into the Formula One Group, and are excited about its future. We will build on the firm foundation that Tom has laid to make the magazine an even greater success throughout the world."

According to comments attributed to Rubython prior to his departure, the latest issue of the magazine, containing reports from the US and Japanese GPs, was due for publication on 24 October.