Schumacher ready for changes

Michael Schumacher believes the radical rule changes introduced by Formula One are not enough to hamper his bid for a record sixth title.

The German world champion believes the new rules, unveiled by the FIA president Max Mosley on Wednesday, are necessary for Formula One to thrive. Mosley has promised to outlaw driver aids like traction and launch control by 2004, if not sooner, while radio communication between pit and car will not be permitted this year.

High-cost engines have also been eliminated and teams will be unable to use their spare car, while there will be major changes to engine life in the coming years and some standard parts will be brought in.

"Perhaps with this Formula One will become more accessible for smaller teams," Schumacher said. "There are huge expenses involved in the sport and some of the smaller teams are afraid.

"For me, I prefer the one with all the technical possibilities because I don't like to make compromises in the race car. I like to make it as fast as possible and all the electronics have helped that. Obviously that was the same for everyone and, if there are changes, it is again the same for everyone. I have dealt with the other system before so I will deal with it as it comes."

Schumacher believes the absence of electronic aids will make racing more unpredictable in some conditions, but has reservations about the banning of radio communication.

"In rain conditions I believe, without traction control, it will be very difficult," he said. "If there is an oil problem in a certain corner or an accident or a rain situation mixed on the track, then on the radio you can discuss that. If you don't have a radio, you cannot."