McLaren, Williams against engine rule

Motorsport's legislative body, the FIA World Council, rubber-stamped a proposal yesterday (Wednesday) to bring in the cost-cutting measure for the season after next. The proposal was put together by the F1 teams and manufacturers, but it has been revealed that the top two British outfits are unhappy about the ruling.

Williams technical director Patrick Head told The Guardian: "I don't think this is a good idea. That said, I feel pretty neutral about it because ultimately I don't think the status quo will be changed. The good teams will still be ahead."

But the decision may have upset some of F1's engine manufacturers. Rule stability on motors was supposed to be stable until 2007, but limiting cars to one engine per weekend will require new types of engines to be built. They will have to be much more reliable, if drivers are not to be punished by losing 10 places on the grid because of engine failures.

World champion team Ferrari is said to have been very supportive of the new regulation.