In an effort to distinguish themselves from other motor sports FIA, F1’s governing body has ruled that beginning this season the champion will be determined by the number of wins per driver and not an overall points system like those currently in use by practically all racing associations. Points will be used as a tie breaker and to determine driver standings. Under the new system Ferrari’s Felipe Massa would be the defending champion by virtue of having won six F1 races to 2008 champ Lewis Hamilton of McLaren’s five chequered flags.

All 10 F1 teams have favored a revamping of the rules, but their proposal suggested replacing the former 10-9-8 point’s allocation with a 12-9-7 scoring system. F1 head Ernie Eccelstone had proposed a medals tally, but he altered his thinking to the winner take all format after meeting with the FIA in Paris.

One result will most likely be drivers becoming more aggressive as the season progresses. Instead of computing points to determine how far they can be from the chequered flag, it should spur them to drive for a win each time out if they are in contention for the F1 title.

In consideration of the current global financial crisis FIA’s World Motor Sports Council approved further regulation changes to decrease the overall cost of operating and maintaining an open wheel vehicle. They have proposed a cap of $42M to cover expenditures on the auto and are considering allowing greater technical freedom regarding the machines. This includes changes to make the body more aerodynamic, the placement of moveable wings and an engine that is not subject to a rev limit or development freeze.

Teams would also be granted greater leeway in development and training by removing the current ban on in season aerodynamic testing and allowing testing eight days during the season. Teams would also be able to provide three days of in season testing to younger drivers who have not driven in more than two GP events in the past 24 months.

In a further effort to provide some financial assistance and keep the tour competitive FIA had issued immediate approval to Braun GP’s purchase of the Honda team and decided to waive the entry fee that is usually assessed to a new team on the circuit. This saves Braun money and allows them to be in better position for the races beyond the March 29 Australian Grand Prix that opens the season.

While the FIA appears to be calming the waters, not everyone is feeling the same. As the circuit plans to open on Friday at Melbourne’s Albert Park some are already crying foul over off season developments to the cars owned by Toyota, Williams and new comer Braun GP.  With Braun coming out of the gate with amazing track times in March Red Bull has already announced they will call for an investigation of the new kid’s diffuser design if it is accepted at Albert Park.

Bridgestone will be showing they participate in F1’s Make Cars Green initiative by premiering their environmentally friendlier tyres that feature green sidewalls. The eco slicks are available to the teams in hard, medium, soft and super soft rubber. 

Photo Credit: Thierry Bovy / Icon SMI