New F1 rules announced to even up contest
16 January 2003: In-race tinkering with Formula 1 cars via telemetry has been banned by the sport's ruling body, the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile.
The organisation has also banned the use of a spare car by teams, which will now have to depend on their two cars over a full driving weekend.
The FIA may also ban traction control this year, but if they don't it will definitely be outlawed in 2004.
Other changes now upcoming include that teams will have to use a standardized braking system and rear wing from 2004, and long-lasting car components.
They'll also have to use the same engine for at least two races in 2005 and at least six races in 2006.
The changes are made because the teams for this season failed to agree on how to cut costs.
Team costs can range from about $50 million a season for a contender like Minardi, while Ferrari spends around about $250 million.
The new conditions are aimed at creating a more level circuit, where throwing money is not the absolute key to success.
A number of big sponsors have dropped out, such as Orange SA, France's biggest mobile phone operator, and Deutsche Post AG.
The season opens March 9 with the Australian Grand Prix at Melbourne.