Drivers to discuss new doping tests

The move comes after renewed calls from a number of drivers to increase the sophistication of tests in F1, as revealed by Autosport earlier this month.

Some members of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA) are convinced that the current measures to test for drugs do not go far enough.

Drivers are currently only required to submit occasional urine samples on a randomly selected basis, but the increasing sophistication of 'doping' means a number of performance-boosting substances are virtually undetectable without blood testing.
 
One driver, who did not wish to be named, told Autosport recently: "We're all considered to be reasonably fit and really we should have nothing to fear. But there's no question that something like EPO, which is really common in professional cycling, would help concentration and stamina levels.

"Personally I would like to see more testing and not to the Mickey Mouse levels we have at the moment."

The subject of increased drug testing has become a hot topic of conversation in the Istanbul paddock, which has left some drivers frustrated because they think that drug taking is non-existent in the sport.

GPDA director David Coulthard has said that he is so annoyed by the latest talk that he wants the matter sorted out at this afternoon's F1 drivers' briefing.

"It's something that people bring up every now and again, but I don't see the point as I don't think there is a problem with drugs," he said.

"I am sure no driver would fail a test, so I don't see why we need to make an issue out of it. I will be bringing it up in the drivers' briefing."

But not all drivers think the matter should be ignored - and that if there was no drug taking then there should be nothing to fear from increased tests.

Williams' Mark Webber said: "I would be highly surprised if anyone is doing anything, apart from a few Foster's here and there.

"But it is a professional sport and you should always cover all bases. I am not trying to make a mountain out of a molehill, but why not more testing?"