Just heard this on autoweek

[XspudX]

They said that the FIA, to help cut costs is proposing that an engine be able to last 2 events before rebuild, and limiting to 7 bodies through the season.

Thoughts?

[EnzoHonda]

Originally Posted by XspudX

and limiting to 7 bodies through the season.

Thoughts?

So I guess that means Colin McRae won't be rallying for much longer.

[RallyRaider]

Originally Posted by EnzoHonda

So I guess that means Colin McRae won't be rallying for much longer.

Although the plan by the FIA is more like:
No matter how many stupid decisions they come up with, they always manage to top it. Wish they'd top themselves!

[Marco_Wrc]

Even more drastic changes are proposed by the FIA.

source: worldrallynews.com newsletter

FIA plans revolution for 2004
September 3, 2003

The FIA is proposing significant changes to the points-scoring and recce systems for the 2004 World Rally Championship that could undermine contract negotiations and may lead to much shorter rallies.

To cut costs in return for expanding the World Championship from 14 to 16 rallies, the FIA is proposing that manufacturers run two-car teams, rather three. At present, manufacturers can enter three cars and count their two highest-placed cars. Citroen and Peugeot have already signed contracts with “number three” drivers - Simon Jean-Joseph and Freddy Loix respectively - assuming that the regulations would remain the same in 2004.

For 2004, the FIA proposes to do away with practice cars and gravel note crews, while splitting the recce into two parts. Crews will practise the stages once before the start of the rally, on Wednesday and Thursday, then take a second run through each day’s stages, early each morning. They will be permitted to use either the rally car or a standard car for the recce.

Extensive changes to certain rally routes may become necessary. The first two rounds, the Monte Carlo and Swedish Rallies, are expected to exempt. Subsequent events may apply for a waiver to run significantly less than the usual 400 kilometres of stages.

Members of the World Council, the FIA’s executive arm, are being asked to vote for or against the new proposals by fax.

[z33guy]

Originally Posted by EnzoHonda

So I guess that means Colin McRae won't be rallying for much longer.

[Focus2000]

What is wrong with the FIA? Can they not leave a successful sport alone? It's as if they feel they have to make random changes in an attempt to justify their own existence

[z33guy]

thats pretty lame, if its not broke dont fix it....if a team cant afford to be in the sport, let them go. I know the BTCC lost nissan and all of their makes awhile back and they have payed for it, but i think the series is just as strong now as it ever has been. If the wrc loses acouple of rides, so be it, its better than destroying the whole series.