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| The use of bi-directional telemetry allowed McLaren's David Coulthard to win the Monaco Grand Prix. |
As a result of its new "zero-tolerance" policy Mosley and the FIA axed some key technologies in order to level the playing field so to speak. Gone for 2003 is bi-directional telemetry, a feature that enables teams to remotely control systems on the cars. That said if it weren't for its use during the 2002 season David Coulthard's engine oil flow would never have been redirected and his engine would have never made it to the Monaco finish line, which would have resulted in yet another win for 2nd place finisher Michael Schumacher.
But the world's greatest driver, statistically at least, and his race 'fixing' Ferrari team might have had more to do with the FIA's decision to ban radio communication between team and driver. Now, the only communication will be via pit-boards and official's flags, putting a damper on last minute team orders.
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| FIA President Mosley would love to see more moments like this, when Mark Webber driving for Paul Stoddart's normally back-of-the-pack Minardi team collected two points. While in this instance it was mostly due to the spectacular turn 1 mishap that put half the field out of commission, the new rules combined with Minardi's new engine deal could see it happen much more regularly. |
Another surprise move disallows spare cars from running on race weekends. Now only two cars will be accepted, so boys, don't crash yours on Saturday qualifying warm-up. It is expected, however, that those teams opting to run Friday testing will still be able to use their T-cars for this purpose, as it is technically not part of the 'race weekend'.
After Saturday afternoon qualifying, which incidentally is now a NASCAR-style one chance and it's over affair, all cars will be 'impounded' until just prior to the race the next day. Under strict supervision teams will be able to work on their cars, and common sense dictates that there will be some talk about releasing the cars for the ½ hour warm-up session on race-day morning.