"Stop and Go" Procedure Introduced in UIM F1 Powerboat Racing

Abu Dhabi (UAE), (Friday, 27 June 2003) ­ The 2003 UIM F1 Powerboat World Championship has instituted a "stop and go" penalty procedure that will apply to drivers deemed to have infringed UIM regulations in the course of a race. The measure will take effect immediately and will be implemented beginning July 6, at the next race on the 2003 Championship calendar in Cagliari (Italy).

The procedure means that a penalized team member will have access to the race pontoon in a pre-determined area, and, under the direction of the Pontoon Marshal, will have to stop his boat's engine for 10 seconds before re-starting at the Pontoon Marshal's green flag.

Nicolo di San Germano, UIM F1 Powerboat World Championship promoter: “ After the first events of the F1 2003 Powerboat season ended with sanctioned results, I asked the UIM F1 daily management committee to consider measures to alleviate driver frustration and help enhance spectator understanding of our sport.  The intent is also to help the media report definitive results, as well as to make it easier for television to provide accurate, live commentary as a race proceeds.

"I am satisfied to note that there is general concensus within the sport that the introduction of a "stop and go” procedure  is justified in  F1 Powerboat racing."

For additional information, interviews or video footage please contact:

Steve Michael Reporting - Philippe Stiernon F1 Press Officer

Photos: http://www.f1boatphotos.com