Williams, McLaren Unlikely to Run Third Car in 2005

Williams and McLaren bosses have said they are unlikely to be given the chance to run a third car in Friday practice next year even if they finish fifth in the Constructors' Championship this season.

The two teams are currently fighting it out for fourth place with Williams just ahead by eight points, and the six teams that finish fifth or below are allowed to run an extra car in the two Friday sessions at each Grand Prix weekend.

But the rule was introduced to allow the smaller teams the opportunity for extra sponsorship exposure and car development and both McLaren and Williams expect the FIA to alter the rule and prevent them from gaining an unexpected advantage.

"I would be very surprised if it happened," said McLaren boss Ron Dennis. "It was really never designed for any top teams to take advantage. It's pretty simple to see how this will unfold."

Sir Frank Williams, the Williams team principal, added: "I think the FIA want to look again at it because the rule wasn't designed for a senior team to benefit. It's a sporting matter so maybe it could be changed.

"If you're fifth, you're fifth. We are trying to be third or second but one of the teams, probably Williams or McLaren, will be fifth. Maybe we can arrange to be joint fifth!"

Dennis said that the rule is almost certain to be changed because the only person who would vote for it to remain would be the team boss who finished fifth and the new regulation can be passed with less than a majority.

But Williams was quick to admit that he would take advantage of the opportunity and, when asked if he would accept the chance, he added: "We would be mad not to, wouldn't we."