F1 overhaul will be 'radical'

Amid continued criticisms that the role of aerodynamics in modern F1 is leading to a lack of overtaking, Mosley is putting serious thought to the new package of rules from 2008 and has outlined plans for a radical overhaul of car design.

"If we get to the stage of sensible racing with proper cars and it is all working, then I think the sport will revitalise itself," he said. "The racing hasn't been that brilliant.

"One of the things that we are looking at very carefully is having a huge reduction in downforce and a very big increase in mechanical grip. There is a lot of evidence from simulations that if we go really extreme on this, then it will improve the racing dramatically to help overtaking. It is something that really needs looking at."

Mosley believes that downforce may be cut back to as little as 10 percent of the current level, with only enough to 'stabilise' the car. Increased mechanical grip will be provided by wider tyres - which will also serve to increase car drag and limit the straightline speed of the cars.

Research conducted by the FIA about the best way forwards has actually come to the same conclusion as a similar study by Ferrari - which believes that the much talked about 'less aerodynamic grip, more mechanical grip' mantra will only work if the reduction in downforce is dramatic

"I was completely delighted and astonished to see that with no contact from us, they (Ferrari) had come to the same view that if you want to improve overtaking then you need to do this step," added Mosley.

The switch to such radical rules will likely lead to an increase in lap times of up to 10 seconds per lap - and will also require the FIA to limit downforce in categories below F1 to ensure that those series are not faster than grand prix racing.

And although Ferrari is currently the only team involved in discussions about 2008, with the FIA making clear it will only frame its rules with those teams committed to F1 from that date, Mosley believes achieving his aims is a reality.

"I think it's possible because what will happen is the rational teams will sign up with Bernie, between four and six of them, and they will sit down and do these rules.

"The others will huff and puff on the outside and say that we will do this or that, and then we will be in a position that F1 is the best championship and they will calm down. It will be easier doing the nitty, gritty with quiet rational people..."