Feb.4 (GMM) Luca di Montezemolo agreed behind closed doors that the controversial 'double points' innovation is necessary for Formula One.

That is the claim of F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone, despite Ferrari president Montezemolo having claimed on record that he is opposed to the unpopular idea.

"It's too artificial," the Italian said recently. "I would not be surprised if the rule is soon abolished."

However, Ecclestone has told F1 business journalist Christian Sylt this week that the 'double points' concept was designed specifically to help the sport's most famous team.

"He (Montezemolo) was talking about it and I said 'It is very simple why we got that (double points rule)'," Ecclestone is quoted by City A.M.

"'It is because you (Ferrari) aren't performing'," the 83-year-old recalled telling Montezemolo.

"'If you were doing what you should be doing there wouldn't be any need for it'. He (Montezemolo) said 'I know, I know'," Ecclestone added.