Originally posted by bigMoneyRacing:

By this time, the nine teams had discussed running a non-championship race, or a race in which the Michelin teams could not score points, and even a race whereby only the Michelin teams used the new chicane, and indeed, every other possible option that would allow 20 cars to participate and put on a show, thereby not causing the enormous damage to Formula One that all those present knew would otherwise occur.

By now, most present felt the only option was to install the chicane and race, if necessary, without Ferrari, but with 18 cars, in what would undoubtedly be a non-championship race. We discussed with Bernie the effects of the FIA withdrawing its staff, and agreed among ourselves a Race Director, a Safety Car driver, and other essential positions, and all agreed that, under the circumstances, what was of paramount importance was that the race must go ahead. All further agreed that since we would most likely be denied FIA facilities, such as scales and post-race scrutineering, every competitor would instruct his team and drivers to conduct themselves in the spirit of providing an entertaining race for the good of Formula One.


Paul Stoddart

http://www.planetf1.com/features/race_features/story_20035.shtml



I'm sorry, but he is kidding himself. Having spent money to fly out to a USGP before, I can tell you I would have been mad if this scenario had played out as well. People paid good money to go see a championship race, not an all team encompassing test session.

Basically what is comes down to is that Michelin screwed up, they screwed the teams and they screwed the fans. The fact that they haven't taken responsibility for this speaks volumes.

-Christy

Christy Kinley 95 Contour SE MTX 01 Outback Limited Wagon with all the goodies