It should be pointed out that most of the rules covering testing this year are based on a gentleman's agreement between the teams.

This means that the FIA will not attend the tests and check the mileage carried out by each driver, or the amount of laps completed. Instead the FIA will rely on the teams to police themselves.

This means that although the teams have agreed to five three-day pre-season (team) tests, there is flexibility regarding extending the tests should they be disrupted by bad weather.

In addition to the team tests, the teams have agreed that each team has the right to conduct a single 3-day (pre-season) test at an alternate venue away from its rivals, Renault having chosen to run at Jerez in January (17 - 19) for example.

Once the season is underway, eight three-day tests will be permitted, however, teams can only use one car, hopefully leading to more action on Grand Prix Fridays.

In addition, once the season begins, the teams will be allowed a fixed number of shakedowns and aero tests, with two three-day tests planned for the end of the season.

The FIA is adamant that it will not interfere, and with the teams having agreed on the rules it will allow them, indeed trust them, to do their own policing.