The rule changes address issues both on the track and in the paddock
source:
paddocktalk.com
In an ongoing effort to provide the best racing and most entertainment for Champ
Car fans, as well as the best competitive environment for the teams and drivers
of the Bridgestone Presents The Champ Car World Series Powered by Ford, the
series has implemented a number of rule changes that will go into effect for the
2005 season.
The rule changes address issues both on the track and in the paddock and are
designed to allow teams to invoke a wide variety of strategies in their pursuit
of the checkered flag. Other changes were designed to increase activity
throughout the weekend in order to give the multitudes of Champ Car fans more
on-track action to watch when they come to an event.
Pit intervals and mandatory pit stops have been abolished this season, meaning
that teams no longer have any directives on when they must pit and what they
must do during that stop. The previous rules forced teams to pit at specified
intervals and forced teams to change four tires during that stop.
"The goal is to take it out of the hands of the officials and put the onus back
on the teams," said Champ Car Vice-President of Operations Tony Cotman. "There's
definitely more than one way to win a race, and we want to leave it up to our
teams to find the best way for them to get to the front."