McLaren, Williams Challenge FIA on Rule Changes

McLaren and Williams accused Formula One's governing body of "dumbing down" the sport on Thursday and said they would go to arbitration to challenge recent rule changes.

"Williams and McLaren believe that the FIA (International Automobile Federation) is in breach of the contract that covers the running of the World Championship," they said in a joint statement.

"While continuing to take part in the 2003 Championship, the teams will be seeking to challenge the FIA's rule changes through the sport's arbitration process."

The season starts in Australia on March 9 with a raft of changes, including one lap qualifying and no refuelling between qualifying and the race. Traction control and launch control systems will also be phased out in other measures designed to cut costs and try to make the sport more competitive.

Williams finished second, and McLaren third, behind the all-conquering Ferrari team last season.

The two teams denied that Formula One was facing a crisis and echoed fears expressed by the sport's carmakers last month that the changes could stop Formula One being a showcase for the highest level of technology and research.

"The FIA is trying to 'dumb down' Formula One," said McLaren boss Ron Dennis. "It has introduced sweeping new regulations for the 2003 season without proper consultation with the teams.

"We want Formula One to be stable, well-run and professionally administered to ensure the continued success of the sport."