FIA to Allow Testing for New Drivers in 2010

Formula One seems to have learnt from its mistakes this season, as the technical rule book for the upcoming season has suffered some slight modifications based on some controversial situations this year. According to the new agreement between the teams, the in-season testing ban will feature some exceptions in 2010.

In case a new or returning driver is to debut in the 2010 Formula One Championship during the season – either as a result of an injured driver for which he'll have to play the substitute role, or simply a change in strategy from his team – he will be allowed to do a regular on-track test before his debut.

If that rule had been in place this year, drivers like Jaime Alguersuari, Romain Grosjean, Michael Schumacher (who ultimately did not make his Formula One return, but was prohibited from testing prior to his presumable comeback), Luca Badoer and Vitantonio Liuzzi would have had the chance to better prepare their F1 debuts/comebacks.

However, in order for teams not to abuse of the new rules, the one day of testing allowed during the season will be deducted from the team's testing programme next year. Therefore, each in-season test will lead to less off-season testing prior to the new season.

The new rules have not yet been confirmed by the International Automobile Federation (FIA), but it is expected there won't be any problems in the governing body agreeing to the changes. In fact, it was the very president of the FIA Max Mosley to insist that the in-season testing ban rules to be changed for next season, in an interview to the British media last month.