Richards Supports Review of Formula One

BAR-Honda boss David Richards on Friday warned FIA president Max Mosley not to expect a rapid resolution on plans to change the sport's regulations when he meets Formula One's top team bosses in Monaco next month.

Chiefs from six of the top teams will meet Mosley for a two-day meeting in Monaco on May 4 to discuss a dramatic set of plans that are aimed at reducing costs, improving safety and making the sport more exciting.

Although Richards said the discussions will be long, the Briton admitted Formula One needs a revision.

"I'm sure this will just be the first position in a series of debates over the next few weeks prior to the next World Council meeting in June," said Richards today at the Imola circuit. "It is about time for a general review of Formula One.

"It is about time the teams took the responsibility of doing this themselves. It is encouraging and there are some interesting and challenging ideas. Some of them are too radical for me but then some of them maybe not so."

The new proposals include not only technical changes ­ reduced engine power, a ban on electronic driver aids and a new aero package,­ but also changes to the sporting and general regulations.

Those are the suggestions that are likely to be met with most opposition as they demand a "drastic" reduction in testing, no restriction on the loan or sale of chassis, and four-car scoring in the Constructors' Championship.