Toyota Set to Take Advantage of FIA Loophole to Test

Toyota have revealed that they will take full advantage of an FIA loophole and test throughout the winter ban in an effort to get their car on the pace for the start of next season.

FIA regulations allow Toyota to continue to test until they officially announce their intention to compete on the 2002 grid and team boss Ove Andersson admitted they are ready to use the rule despite claims that it may be unfair on the rest of the Formula One grid.

"I cannot agree, we are a new team, not participated in any race, we are doing some testing," said Andersson. "All the other teams have been racing for years and years, so I can't see the unfair view on this.

"It is very clear that the FIA regulations apply to us the year we enter the Championship, so (that is) next year. I have consulted the FIA in November last year and it was confirmed that we can test until the end of this year.

"After that we have to follow the rules for the participating teams. We made our plans based on that and if this rule will change we will be in quite big trouble."

Andersson said that Michelin would not be supplying the team with a 2002-spec tyre and said that Toyota will be using control rubbers. He added: "Maybe Michelin could use this time when they are working with us but they are ready to guarantee they will only supply us with control tyres.

"We have to take every opportunity to ensure that we at least qualify. It is three months before we are being told maybe you cannot test and that is unfair."