It seems like an unthinkable scenario, but Formula 1 could soon be without their two biggest teams, according to Mercedes non-executive chairman Niki Lauda.

There have been a number of recent changes to make the sport a safer and family-friendly spectacle but the three-time F1 champion is concerned they have gone too far.

Ferrari have repeatedly issued threats they could walk away from the sport if they no longer agree with the direction that the sport is heading towards.

And Lauda hasn't ruled out his team following suit either.

"There is certainly a limit for the top teams," he said, per The Express.

"It's possible that one or the other team will get out if it's going in the wrong direction.

"The Halo system is the worst thing ever done to Formula 1. And I do not understand why the grid girls were abolished. The grid girls are not naked for God's sake.

"In Austria, they all have a dirndl (traditional Austrian dress)."

It is also believed that Ferrari chief Sergio Marchionne has the same thought pattern as Lauda.

Meanwhile former Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone says any threats should certainly be taken seriously.

"If they don’t do what Sergio Marchionne thinks is right - and what would benefit Ferrari - he would go.

“I don’t think he does things unless he is serious. And he is not the sort of guy who doesn’t do what he says he is going to do.

"The bottom line is simple: Formula 1 is Ferrari, and Ferrari is Formula 1.

"Go anywhere in the world and they don’t think about Ferrari road cars - it is Formula 1.”