Gravel cars could return

The FIA, the sport's governing body, originally banned Gravel cars as part of a wide range of cost-cutting measures, with World Rally Commission president Shekhar Mehta saying that they were an aid to performance, not safety.

However, this decision was widely criticised by rally drivers, who believe they are essential for safety. Petter Solberg's co-driver Phil Mills said: "The biggest single safety buffer we have is the gravel crew."

While the FIA has not backed down fully on its plans, it has left the door open for Gravel cars next season. An FIA release said: "Gravel cars will only be allowed upon application to the FIA by an event organiser, and then only for reasons of safety, agreed as such by the Safety Commission."

The World Council also confirmed that the new Milles Pistes recceing system would be required for all events next year after the Swedish Rally, except where a waiver is sought "in order to assist an organiser who has particular difficulties in 2004." The new flexi-servicing rules were also confirmed.

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Gravel cars could return

The FIA World Motor Sports Council has left the door open for Gravel cars to be used on next year's World Rally Championship, although individual events will have to apply for them to be allowed