Formula One to introduce handicapping system

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Posted 3:08PM on Monday, October 7, 2002

LONDON - Formula One is prepared to introduce a handicapping system to "protect the sport" from the dominance of Ferrari and five-time champion Michael Schumacher. Formula One head Bernie Ecclestone and Max Mosley, president of FIA, the governing body of Formula One racing, are recommending a plan that would force Ferrari to carry extra weight if it builds an early points lead next season. Ferrari has dominated the circuit this season, and Schumacher clinched his fifth world title in July. Only two non-Ferrari drivers have won races this season. "After what has happened with Ferrari this year, we have to put a cap on it," Ecclestone was quoted as telling The Times of London. "We have to do something to keep the sponsors and the viewers happy. "If Michael runs away with things in the first two or three races next year, we have to be prepared to do something to protect the sport." Ferrari declined comment on Monday. "There is no formalized proposal, so we have no comment on this," Ferrari spokesman Luca Colajanni said. "A procedure exists using F1's technical working group, and if the teams and the sponsors form a proposal, we'll comment then, but right now there is no formalized proposal." Colajanni said Schumacher and Barrichello were on vacation, and the drivers were expected in Tokyo on Wednesday for this week's Japanese Grand Prix. Ecclestone and Mosley submitted their recommendations to F1 teams Monday. The plan is to be debated by the Formula One Commission on Oct. 28. The most radical proposal calls for one kilogram (2.2 pounds) added to a car for every point lead held in the drivers' race. Other proposals include reducing testing, limiting aerodynamic changes during the season, limiting engines to one per race, and extending qualifying to Friday and Saturday. "We are at a crossroads. There is no doubt about that," Mosley told The Times. "We have to improve the show and reduce the costs if teams, and eventually the sport, are going to survive as we know it now." Jordan F1 owner Eddie Jordan supported the change. "Something has to be done," Jordan said. "There are a number of different rules but the weight penalty is a very significant penalty, it is very easy to put in and manage. "We need a healthy championship. I think it is an excellent way and a guaranteed way of leveling out the field."