F1 unveils cost-cutting blueprint

Share

A raft of measures have been agreed that should cut the budgets of Formula One teams by at least 30%.

Big savings will be made on engine costs, in-season testing and staff numbers, following a meeting of the FIA World Motor Sport Council in Monaco.

FIA boss Max Mosley had wanted all teams to use a "one size fits all" standardised Cosworth engine.

The teams rejected that proposal but have agreed to use lower-cost, longer-lasting engines from 2009.

From 2010 there will be a ban on refuelling and, subject to market research, Grand Prix distances could be shortened.

F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone's idea to decide the drivers' title with Olympic-style medals rather than points also needs further research, the sport's governing body said.

"I think this is probably the first step towards Formula One saving itself," said Mosley.

The independent teams will use engines costing less than £4.5m per season from 2009, supplied by an independent supplier or a manufacturer backed by guarantees of continuity.

The FIA estimates that this will provide a 50% saving for the independent teams. All the teams have committed to significant cuts in spending on engines.

Each team will be allowed to use a maximum of 20 engines per season and the power of the engines will be capped.

There will be no in-season testing from next season except during a race weekend and during scheduled practice.

The teams have also agreed that manpower will be reduced by a range of measures, including the sharing of information on tyres and fuel.

The FIA estimates the list of changes for 2009 will save the manufacturer teams approximately 30% of their budgets compared to 2008, with the savings for independent teams even greater.

"The teams have now really got behind the idea, and instead of being reluctant, they are being positive," Mosley added.

"But what's significant about these changes is when you walk down the pit lane, or you sit in the grandstand or watch television, you will notice no difference at all.

"But inevitably, in any industry, if you reduce the costs then you reduce the number of people.

"The teams currently employ between 700 and 1000 people just to put two cars on the grid. In any event, that is not sustainable.

PROPOSALS IN FULL:

Engines:

- From 2009, engine life to be doubled. Each driver to use maximum of eight engines per season; each team can use an additional four for testing

- Limited to 18,000 revs per minute.

- Cost to independent teams will be approximately 50% of 2008 prices.

- 2010 engine will continue to be used in 2011 and 2012.

Race weekend:

- From 2010, standardised radio and telemetry systems, a ban on tyre warmers, mechanical purging of tyres and refuelling on race weekends.

- Possible reduction in race distance or duration (proposal to follow after market research).

Research:

- No wind tunnel exceeding 60% scale and 50 metres per second to be used after 1 January 2009.

- Restrictions on aerodynamic research, combined with a full analysis of factory facilities.

- Factory closures for six weeks per year, to accord with local laws.

Other:

- From 2010, subject to confirmation of practicability, the same transmission will be used by all teams.

- FIA to compose a standard parts list for the chassis.

- FIA and Formula One Teams' Association to study possibility of an entirely new power train (engine and transmission) for 2013, based on energy efficiency.