Matters of moment, March 1995

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Unspectacular, and unnecessary

At a pre-season press briefing, Max Mosley spoke confidently about the FIA’s chances of avoiding the type of technical controversy which so marred the 1994 season. When Formula One kicks into life, at Interlagos on March 26, we trust that his optimism proves to have solid foundations.

We remain at odds, however, with his continued defence of refuelling as part of F1 race strategy. It was an issue highlighted in his interview with Motor Sport last month, and something he has reiterated since.

Formula One personnel recently visited lntertechnique to examine the latest specification refuelling rigs, and one visitor reports that they were indeed lighter, and more manageable, than the system at the centre of last July’s Hockenheim inferno. An unsubstantiated account from elsewhere, however, indicated that the demonstrations were not without problems. We can but hope that such scare stories prove to be without foundation.

Mosley has said, on the record, that “It is theoretically impossible for a fire to occur…”

In this context, however, “theoretically” simply isn’t good enough. It has to be absolutely impossible, or else refuelling should be scrapped. Period.

The FIA would have more of a case if refuelling added something to the spectacle, but most of the time it doesn’t.

Quite simply, we can think of no beneficial reason for the practice to be continued.

Motor Sport

As from next month, Motor Sport Will cost £2 per issue.

Our first price rise in nearly two years has been necessitated by an increase in production costs which has affected the whole publishing industry. Nevertheless, we are convinced that Motor Sport will remain excellent value for money as we continue to provide our unique blend of features covering all aspects of the sport, the industry and the classic and vintage car scenes.

This month, meanwhile, Motor Sport bids farewell to Executive Editor and Formula One correspondent David Tremayne. David has left to pursue a freelance career, and we wish him the very best of fortune in his new endeavour.