Tracy admits illegal use of traction control

Traction control was legalised at the start of last year because of fears that it was impossible to police the system. However, Tracy's comments mark the first time anyone has admitted using the device.

"There were forms of traction control since 1994 when I was with Penske," he said. "Even though people said we didn't have traction control, we actually had it but we were not allowed to say or else you would have your arm cut off by your engine supplier.

"There was no way CART could catch the manufacturers doing it, and that's ultimately why they have legalised traction control - and I think it was probably [the same] in Formula 1. It's not something that you can control. There's only so many codes you can get around trying to find it."

The system was banned again at the start of this season, after Ford became the sole engine supplier to Champ Car. With only one manufacturer, it is now possible for CART to control the engine management software, and ensure traction control is not used.

Tracy, who has won the first three races of the season, believes that he has benefited from the elimination of traction control. "I think this year you'll see a lot of passing. You'll see a lot of action on the track. I think that's probably one reason why I've been more successful."

Between 1994 and 2001, the years in which Tracy said he used traction control, the Canadian drove for three teams powered by Ford, Mercedes-Benz and Honda engines.