For various reasons, Pitpass doesn't usually get involved with petitions, however in this particular case we're going to make an exception.

In the wake of yesterday's unveiling of the provisional entry list for 2010, and the subsequent confirmation from FOTA that the teams will stand their ground, a petition has been launched in support of their cause.

While Pitpass wants to see new teams enter the sport, and fully appreciates the need to reduce spending, especially in these difficult times, we are fully opposed to the way in which the FIA has handled the situation.

Both FOTA and the FIA claim to have the fans interest at heart, but other than a fan survey, sponsored by a company soon to pull out of F1, we cannot see where the sport's governing body has paid any serious attention to the fans, other than harvesting many thousands of valuable e-mail addresses for a well known publishing giant.

On the other hand, as Renault's Carlos Ghosn pointed out earlier this week, it is the manufacturers who "make the show, bring in the technology, bring in the engines and hire the drivers". He has a point.

On the other hand, the FIA, which draws its support form caravan clubs and roadside assistance organizations has done precisely what for the sport in recent years? Yes, safety has been improved, but in some cases to the point of emasculation. Furthermore, far too often the sport's governing body has got F1 into the headlines for all the wrong reasons.

Therefore, we urge you to give your support to this petition, it's not much but it's a start, and certainly sends a clear signal to both FOTA and the FIA.

To register your support, visit ipetitions.com, and ensure you spread the word to other F1 fans.

Please Note:

Our attention has been drawn to a second, petition at gopetition.com, so why not sign both, Pitpass has.