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F1: FIA seeks additional cost cuts and innovative tech rules

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Khatir Soltani
From GMM

In a new letter addressed to Ferrari and FOTA boss Luca di Montezemolo, FIA president Max Mosley has outlined his desire to see additional cost-cutting measures implemented in formula one as soon as possible.

While satisfied with the package of changes unveiled in December, the FIA president believes the global financial crisis coupled with the sport's existing unsustainable practices make further reforms crucial, according to Germany's Auto Motor Und Sport magazine.

Mosley said there is room to standardise many expensive components, including in the gearbox and aerodynamic departments that drive up costs but add nothing to the 'show'.

He vowed to soon publish a list of components for consideration.

Mosley also proposed a further reduction of the engine rev limit from 18,000 to 17,000 rpm, as well as mandating a standard weight distribution for cars in order to reduce the importance of extra ballast.

Mosley says the FIA is even ready to accept the wholesale use of moveable aerodynamic devices in F1 in a bid to help improve the show.

Mosley also said F1's standard tyre manufacturer could be asked to produce tyres that are more durable and therefore leave less rubber discarded on the track, and once again raises the prospect of an annual budget cap for teams.

Mosley said cost cutting should continue to the point where the sport is no longer so reliant on the giant spending of carmakers or extremely wealthy individuals.

"Budgets must be reduced so that teams can be operated with the money received by FOM (Formula One Management)," he is quoted as saying.

Mosley also supported moves to make the regulations for KERS safer, but said he was not keen on proposals including shortening the duration of grands prix, or introducing a 'medals'-style scoring system.
photo:BMW
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
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