GPWC slams F1 changes

The GPWC is made up of representatives from BMW, DaimlerChrysler, Ferrari, Ford and Renault, with the aim of establishing a rival to F1 in 2008. Its board met on Thursday, after which it released a statement heavily criticising the FIA's stance on reducing the use of driver aids such as traction and launch control during the 2003 season.

The statement read: "The manufacturers are in favour of reducing costs, but Formula 1 needs to keep its fundamental characteristic that it is a showcase for the highest level of technology, a place where the most advanced research is applied. It is also important that any change to the rules be established with sufficient advance notice knowing also that any change whatsoever inevitably increases cost, at least in the short term.

"Therefore GPWC is dismayed to note that the cost cutting measures already proposed by the teams in December last year and supported by the manufacturers have effectively been partially disregarded by the FIA. These measures were widely agreed to be reasonable and adequate and would without doubt have considerably reduced costs and fully enhanced the spectacle of Formula 1. While it does not believe that the content, and manner of implementation of Wednesday's proposed changes are consistent with the contractual framework under which Formula 1 operates, GPWC is committed to resolving matters in a manner that supports the sport. GPWC will therefore ask the teams affiliated to its members to analyse the appropriate mechanisms available to them, to ensure that changes are not implemented, or precedents set, that will cause problems for Formula 1, the teams and the drivers in the future."