Ferrari Set to Escape Noise Ban

A new legislation is expected to limit the noise level at Italian racing circuits to 70 decibels next month, but Ferrari's testing programme looks set to escape the new rules.

The law is intended to reduce the noise pollution throughout Italy, but an exception will be granted in order to allow the Monza and Imola circuits to hold Formula One events twelve days each year.

It was initially thought that Ferrari's testing programme at Mugello and Fiorano could be affected by the new legislation, especially considering the Italian outfit tests there more than 100 days a year.

But a source close to Ferrari believes that the team and the Italian government will reach an agreement to allow the 2000 champion to continue testing at the usual venues.

"It is almost certain that a compromise will be reached," said the source. "It would be strange for an Italian law to punish Ferrari."

This is thought to be the reason why Ferrari is to test in Spain with the rest of the teams, braking with the tradition set in the past.