Stoddart seeks dispensation

As Stoddart explained to autosport.com earlier in Shanghai, he regards the problems surrounding engine supplier Cosworth and the unconfirmed 2005 regulations as a case of force majeure. His basic argument is that because the changes are being made to slow the cars down and Minardi is already slow enough, he is a threat to nobody and therefore the other team should vote to allow Minardi to continue as is and have a year's transitional period.

Some of the sport's leading lights such as McLaren and Williams, once openly dismissive of Stoddart, now seem to be highly appreciative of the Aussie's battling qualities and are in support of his case.

Stoddart circulated a formal written request to Bernie Ecclestone, Max Mosley and all the teams in Shanghai, where Dennis said: "We'd never be destructive about a process which allows a team to survive, so long as it doesn't set a precedent which allows others to take advantage."

Frank Williams, who knew all about being a tail-end Charlie in Formula 1 more than 30 years ago, added: "I would love to help Paul because he's a nutcase - a real racer who won't give away and won't give up."

Whether Eddie Jordan would be so accommodating if his team survives, might be another matter.