Source:
Site de l'IFMAR: http://members.ozemail.com.au/~ifmar/
Source:
Site de l'IFMAR: http://members.ozemail.com.au/~ifmar/
12 / 2003
IFMAR 1/10TH SCALE I.C. (GAS) CIRCUIT RACING AND TECHNICAL RULES
FOR 4WD 235mm CARS and 200mm NITRO TOURING CARS
I N D E X
1. SEE GENERAL RULES FOR IFMAR W.C.
5. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 1/10 235mm (including IFMAR 235mm Bodyshell List)
5. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 1/10 200mm (updated Dec. 2003)
(To be read in conjunction with
Section 1. GENERAL Rules for IFMAR World Championships)
2.0 PARTICIPANTS
There will be an IFMAR World Championship for both classes. The two World Championships will consist of a maximum of 148 competitors combined, 74 competitors for 4WD 235mm class and 74 competitors for 200mm Nitro Touring Car class. If all 74 places are not filled in one class, the remaining unused places in that class become available for the other class. A driver may enter both classes or only one class.
2.1 SCHEDULE
The two events will be run concurrently over a period of eight (8) to ten (10) days.
2.2 FREE PRACTICE
Free practice will start on Thursday. The track will open for a
minimum of a total of twenty one (21) hours for free practice over Thursday,
Friday and Saturday. The Organiser
may optionally allow competitors to practise before Thursday or at extended
hours. Free practice schedule will
not normally be changed but may be if, because of unforeseen circumstances, the
Team Managers' Committee votes to do so with approval from the International
Jury.
2.3 REGISTRATION
Sunday from 08.00 to 18.00 and Monday from 08.00 to 18.00. Final deadline for registration: Monday 18.00. IFMAR may authorise later registration at its discretion. When registration of drivers is carried out, each driver will sign a form which states that he accepts, and will abide by, the published rules of the event.
2.4 DRIVERS' AND TEAM MANAGERS' MEETINGS
2.4.1 Any drivers' briefings are to be held at the Organiser's discretion when all drivers must attend.
2.4.2 A Team Managers' Meeting before the start of the first round of qualifying heats is compulsory. All Team Managers must attend.
2.4.3 Further Team Managers' Meetings are recommended but are called at the Organiser's discretion.
2.5 TECHNICAL INSPECTION
Will be on Sunday and Monday from 08.00 until 18.30. Drivers or mechanics have to present their cars with bodies, empty tanks, a bottle of fuel and transmitters.
2.6 CONTROLLED PRACTICE
All drivers will have the chance to participate in frequency controlled practice on Sunday. There will be a timed practice for drivers in their published heats on Monday, ten (10) minute practice heats beginning at 08.30.
2.7 OPENING CEREMONY
An opening ceremony will take place on Monday at 18.30. Competitors will participate in a welcoming procession. Each national team is asked to wear similar shirts. A flag and sign bearing the name of each country will be provided by the organiser for each team. At the Opening Ceremony a Concours d’Elegance will be held in two (2) categories for each class. First category will be the best “paint job”. Second category will be the best 1/10th scale replica. There will be one (1) trophy for each category.
2.8 QUALIFYING HEATS
2.8.1 There will be six (6) qualifying rounds of ten (10) minutes for each entrant’s car, the best number of laps and time of finishing lap, counting for best result. The entrants will be divided into two (2) groups: Group A will consist of the 235mm class, heats 1 to 8. Group B will consist of the 200mm class, heats 9 to 16. Six (6) rounds of qualifying heats will be run as follows:
Tuesday: Rounds 1 and 2 – Group A
Round One Round Two
Heat 1 9.00 11.00
Heat 2 9.15 11.15
Heat 3 9.30 11.30
Heat 4 9.45 11.45
Heat 5 10.00 12.00
Heat 6 10.15 12.15
Heat 7 10.30 12.30
Heat 8 10.45 12.45
Group B Heat 9 13.45 15.45
Heat 10 14.00 16.00
Heat 11 14.15 16.15
Heat 12 14.30 16.30
Heat 13 14.45 16.45
Heat 14 15.00 17.00
Heat 15 15.15 17.15
Heat 16 15.30 17.30
After round two (2) of qualifying heats, drivers will be re-seeded within their group for remaining rounds of heats.
After re-seeding:
Wednesday: Rounds 3 and 4
Group B starts at 9.00
Group A starts at 13.45
Thursday: Rounds 5 and 6
Group A starts at 9.30 heats 1 to 8
Group B starts at 11.30 heats 9 to 16
Group A starts at 13.30 heats 8 to 1
Group B starts at 15.30 heats 15 to 8
This schedule assumes a total of 144 drivers. For less or more drivers in each class there
would be equivalent heats.
2.8.2 The top four (4) qualifiers in the 235mm class go straight to the 235mm Main Final.
The top four (4) qualifiers in the 200mm class go straight to the 200mm Main Final.
2.9 FINALS
All sub-finals and final consist of ten (10) drivers. “Christmas Tree” System for 74 entries in each class:
1/32 final even numbers 74 – 62 odd numbers 73 – 61 *
1/16 final even numbers 60 – 48 odd numbers 59 – 47 *
1/8 final even numbers 46 – 34 odd numbers 45 - 33 *
1/4 final even numbers 32 – 20 odd numbers 31 – 19 *
1/2 final even numbers 18 - 6 odd numbers 17 – 5 **
* First three (3) go forward. Duration twenty (20) minutes.
** First two (2) go to final; then the next two fastest from either semi-final go to final. Duration thirty (20) minutes.
The car numbers for the six (6) drivers who moved up from the semi-finals is based on the results achieved out of both semi-finals, taking into account the laps and times only.
Friday: Lower finals from 1/32 to 1/8 for each class to be run over twenty (20) minutes.
1/32 235mm Even starts at 8.00 Odd starts at 8.30
1/32 200mm Even starts at 9.00 Odd starts at 9.30
1/16 235mm Even starts at 10.00 Odd starts at 10.30
1/16 200mm Even starts at 11.00 Odd starts at 11.30
Lunch break from 12.00 to 13.30
1/8 235mm Even starts at 13.30 Odd starts at 14.00
1/8 200mm Even starts at 14.30 Odd starts at 15.00
1/4 235mm Even starts at 15.30 Odd starts at 16.00
1/4 200mm Even starts at 16.30 Odd starts at 17.00
Saturday: 1/2 finals to be run over twenty (20) minutes.
1/2 235mm Even starts at 9.00 Odd starts at 9.30
1/2 200mm Even starts at 10.00 Odd starts at 10.30
Practice for direct qualified finalists from both classes to be run separately:
235mm 10.30 to 11.00
200mm 11.00 to 11.30
Lunch break from 11.30 to 12.00
EACH CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL TO BE RUN OVER ONE (1) HOUR
235mm 2.00 Drivers’ presentation to the public
12.15 Warm-up Practice
12.28 Trial start
12.30 Start
13.30 End of Race
13.40 Unofficial publication of result
14.00 End of protest time
14.10 Prize ceremony on the track
200mm 15.00 Drivers’ presentation to the public
15.15 Warm-up Practice
15.28 Trial start
15.30
Start
16.30 End of the race
16.40 Unofficial publication of result
17.00 End of protest time
17.10 Prize ceremony on the track
Sunday: To be used as spare day to allow for any delay in schedule. Banquet and Awards' presentation to be held on Sunday night. At the conclusion of the Banquet and Awards' presentation, Team Managers will be given a result folder showing the qualification results and the final positions for both classes, as a closing report.
2.10 RAIN SITUATION
The Race Director will stop the racing if it rains. If there are delays due to weather, re-arrangements will be made as follows:
QUALIFYING HEATS
2.10.1 In case of the interruption of a heat, the entire heat will be re-run.
2.10.2 In the event of rain, the track must return to 100% dry conditions before racing can re-commence. The 100% dry conditions will be determined by a majority decision of the International Jury.
2.10.3 If a round of heats is started, it must be completed under the same conditions. If a round is halted due to rain or unforeseen circumstances and cannot be completed, this round will not be counted until the remaining heats in the round can be completed.
2.10.4 If weather and time permit and there is no time restriction on track use, every endeavour should be made by the Race Director to run as many of the maximum six (6) rounds of heats as possible.
2.10.5 A minimum of two (2) of the total of six (6) rounds must be completed.
CHRISTMAS TREE FINALS
2.10.6 In the event of rain during the 1/4 finals, if 50% of the race has been run before the rain, the race is declared. If rain falls before 50% of the race has been run, the results will be kept from the moment of stopping which will be the previous lap when the leading car crosses the finishing line. The new start will be given for the time which remains to complete the final. The two results will be added to give the final and definite placings. If the second start cannot be given for any reason, the results from the first part will be used as the final and definite placings.
2.10.7 In the semi-finals, if 75% of the race has been run before rain commences, the race is declared. If rain falls in the first 25% of the race, a total re-run will take place. If rain falls between the 25% and 75% mark, the total of the two (2) combined legs will be added together.
2.10.8 In the event of a semi-final being interrupted in this way, the top three (3) from each semi-final will advance to the final.
2.10.9 In the event of rain falling before the 25% mark where a complete re-start is required, drivers will be allowed to undertake maintenance on their cars.
2.10.10 If 75% of a main final has been run before rain commences, the race is declared. In the event of a main final being interrupted by rain where the two results will be added together (i.e. after the 25% mark), drivers may make repairs, re-fuel and change tyres before the re-commencement of that main final.
2.11.1 RACE PACKAGE
During
registration, every driver will be given an envelope which includes; A detailed
schedule including starting times of each heat, 3 sets of numbers for the car
(the number on each decal to measure not less than 50.00mm/1.96 in. high x
30.00mm/1.18 in wide with a stroke of 8.00mm/.314 in., 3 sets of numbers for the
wing, l number for the transmitter, l badge for the driver, l badge for the
mechanic and l badge for the country's Team Manager will be issued. Also included in the package there must
be a sketch showing the correct positioning of the car numbers on the
bodyshell.
2.11.2
NUMBERING OF CARS
Cars will be numbered 1 to 10 in each heat.
Each car must have 3 numbers: - one on the front, one on the right side, one on the left side. These numbers will change during the qualifying heats (after re-seeding).
The organiser will provide other numbers for altered heats and for sub-finals and final.
Number decals may not be trimmed to eliminate the background.
2.11.3 NUMBERING OF THE BODY / WING
The registration number (1-74, with number 1 being the reigning world champion) is put on the body/wing. It is the same for the entire competition.
The numbers provided by the organiser must be attached to the right side of the body/wing, the other side being reserved for the competitor's national flag. Every competitor must have his national flag on the left side of the body/wing of his car (when looking from the rear).
2.11.4 NUMBERING OF TRANSMITTERS
Every transmitter will have the competitor's number on it. (The same number as on the wing).
2.12 BADGES
2.12.1 DRIVERS, MECHANICS AND TEAM MANAGERS
Two badges will be given to each competitor, blue for the driver, yellow for the mechanic. The designated Team Manager from each country will receive an orange badge upon registration of his drivers (see Rule 4.23).
2.12.2 ACCESS TO PITS AND TRACK
Orange badges/team managers - pits, staging area, special viewing area.
Blue badges/drivers - drivers' stand, pits, staging area.
Yellow badges/mechanics - pits, staging area.
Green badges/Press - pits, staging area, special viewing area.
Red badges/race officials - all areas.
Grey badges/IFMAR officials - all areas.
2.13 PITS
Places are allocated for the duration of the World Championship. Places are grouped by country and marked by sign plates. Pits are covered. Every competitor will have a 60 x 120 cm (2 x 4 feet) table space.
Pits are equipped with either; 120 V/60 or 220 V/50 AC. Limited quantity of transformers will be available, 12 V DC (limited) in starting area.
2.14 TRANSMITTERS
2.14.1 TRANSMITTER IMPOUND
Transmitter impound will start on Tuesday. All transmitters must be placed in impound upon arrival at the track. Transmitters will be furnished to each competitor after completion of technical inspection and prior to their heat. All transmitters must be returned to impound following their heat. Transmitters in the pit area, or areas other than the drivers' stand and impound, during official competition hours, will cause disqualification.
2.14.2 TRANSMITTER INSPECTION
All transmitters must be tested and inspected prior to their use. A spectrum analyser will be used for radio inspection. All transmitters passing inspection will be identified and only these transmitters, thus identified, may be used in the event.
Automatic lap
counting, with cumulative and split lap times, will be in place for each car.
Competitors are required to install
a small transponder into their cars according to the organiser's instructions.
An audio/video tape recording will be made.
Every competitor is also
allowed to use his own IFMAR approved personal transponder if the lap counting
officials are informed and agree.
If an organiser is using a personal
transponder system, he has to provide to all participants, not having their own
transponder, a transponder for every heat or final free of charge. It is strictly forbidden to ask for a
rental fee. A deposit of the
replacement value for the personal transponder may be demanded. If a competitor for any reason destroys
or does not return a personal or normal transponder, he loses his
deposit.
The driver has to ensure that his personal private transponder
belongs to the marked chassis.
Significant stops (refuelling, tyre
changes, crashes, etc.) will be noted with times of stop and restart. This record might not include every
incident, however, its intent is to verify incidents, whenever
possible.
AMB lap counting system or IFMAR approved equivalent must be used in duplicate. A suitable working computer with proper race proven programmes must be provided to sort lap times, print results from heats and sort final positions from each round of heats within l5 minutes of the completion of the round of heats. Chronometers must give time to 1/100th of a second, in all cases, the hundreds will be utilised. In the case of equal results, the following best heat will separate the competitors. If both the primary and support lap counting systems fail during a qualifying heat or final, the heat or final will be re-run as soon as is practicable. Under no circumstances will any lap score or time, other than those from the official time keeping equipment, be accepted for any purpose to do with the running of an IFMAR race.
2.16 DISPLAY AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE RESULTS
The display of the positions in a specific heat or final will be done in the pits and in the Team Managers'/Press stand. At the end of each heat (every l5 minutes) or of the finals, a copy of each competitor's lap sheet will be available for checking and information. Copies of the time-lap sheets of all cars of the heat or the final will be displayed with the result. At the end of each round, results of the general classification will be available.
SECTION THREE - TRACK SPECIFICATIONS
3.1 SURFACE
Track surface should be unsealed asphalt or coarse finished concrete with smooth
joints, if any.
3.2 LENGTH
The minimum length is 200 metres/656 feet. Advised is 240-300 metres/787 - 984 feet.
3.3 WIDTH
The minimum width of the track is 4.5 metres/l5 feet between marking lines. The maximum width is 6.5 metres/ 2l feet. The marking lines must be 8-10 centimetres/3-4 inches wide.
3.4 PODIUM
Maximum distance from the middle of the drivers' podium to the furthest point of the track is 60 metres/l97 feet. Minimum height of the drivers' podium is 2.5 metres/8 feet from track level and the podium is at least l0 metres/33 feet long.
3.5 VISION
No obstacles may interrupt the vision from the drivers' podium to all parts of the track.
3.6 MARKING
A broken line may be painted in the middle of the straight to increase the vision.
3.7 PITS
The refuelling and pit area should be clearly distinct and separated from the main track and as close as possible to the drivers' podium. Exit from and entrance to the main track is advised to be on a slow section of the track.
3.8 DESIGN
Track design must include both right and left turns and must have a straight of minimum 60 metres/l64 feet.
3.9 OUTSIDE
BARRIERS
Outside barriers must provide positive means of stopping a car when missing a corner or out of driver's control. The consideration at selection of the outside barriers shall be the protection of the spectators and not the cars, although, if both can be obtained, it is ideal. The outside barriers must be at least 40 centimetres/l6 inches away from the marking lines of the track.
3.10 INSIDE BARRIERS
Inside barriers must avoid short-cutting of corners or cars getting on other parts of the track. Inside barriers must be positioned and dimensioned to avoid cars flying over the outside barriers into the public. Inside barriers must be smooth and must be 20 centimetres/8 inches away from the marking lines on the track.
3.11 DOTS
No dots will be used on high speed sections.
3.12 SURROUNDINGS
The inner and outer surroundings of the track must have grass or other suitable materials, such as concrete. The object of these surroundings is to slow down the car that leaves the track. The car must be able to leave the infield or outfield on its own to minimise marshal assistance.
3.13 MARSHAL POSTS
Marshal posts must be available for every 30 meters/100 feet of the track length. They may not obstruct the vision of the drivers. The posts must be numbered. When a post is located on dangerous part of the track (i.e. the straight or a fast corner), this post must then provide protection for the marshal (wall, tyres, gate, etc.).
3.14 STARTING
LINE
A starting line must be painted across
the track, preferably in front of the time keeping. The vision of the starting
line may not be obstructed by the mechanics holding the cars or by the starter
and starting equipment. The starting line must be located more than 10.00
metres/33.00 feet away from the first corner. Ten numbered boxes of 70.00-100.00
centimetres/27.00-40.00 inches long are painted with the starting line forming
the front of all the boxes. The hold line for the mechanics is located 1.00
metre/3.30 feet behind the boxes.
3.15 LE MANS START
For the "Le Mans" type starts, ten (10) numbered boxes are located on the side
of the track at an angle of 20-45 degrees with the track, at a minimum of 2.00
metres/7.00 feet and maximum 4.00 metres/14.00 feet apart. The boxes must measure
70.00-100.00 centimetres/27.00-40.00 inches long and 30.00-40.00 centimetres/12.00-16.00
inches wide.
SECTION FOUR - RACE PROCEDURES
4.1 POSITIONING
Mechanic must be positioned under his driver's position. During finals, positions will be selected by drivers in order of qualifying position, i.e. No. l qualifier has first choice, No. 2 qualifier has second choice, etc. During qualifying heats, only one (1) mechanic is allowed.
During finals, two (2) mechanics are allowed per car. The use of all electronic communication devices between drivers and mechanics is banned during heats and finals.
4.2 GENERAL STARTING PROCEDURE
HEATS -
4.2.1 There must be a five (5) minute gap between the end of one heat and the start of the next. Also a minimum of three (3) minutes must be allowed between the issuance of the transmitters and the start of the heat.
4.2.2 An audible warning will be given in English language at one (1) minute and at thirty (30) seconds.
4.2.3 A staggered start timing system will be used during qualifying. The cars will leave the starting boxes after the starting signal in the following order:
ROUND 1: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
ROUND 2: 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1 2
ROUND 3: 5 6 7 8 9 10 1 2 3 4
ROUND 4: 7 8 9 10 1 2 3 4 5 6
ROUND 5: 9 10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
ROUND 6:
10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Each individual official time will start when the car passes the timing system for the first time.
When the first car completes the first lap, all official timing not yet activated will be started.
4.2.4 An audible warning will be given in English language at one (1) minute and at thirty (30) seconds.
4.2.5 From thirty (30) seconds until three (3) seconds the cars may be placed in the starting boxes. If a car is not in the starting box at the three (3) second mark, it must start from the pitlane after all cars have started officially.
4.2.6 From ten (10) seconds until three (3) seconds, time is counted down in English language, second by second.
4.2.7 At five (5) seconds, the starter will lower the starting flag and at three (3) seconds, the flag will be down, touching the ground. At this time, cars must be released by the mechanics who will all step back behind the hold line. The cars must remain in the boxes, no part of the car touching the starting line.
4.2.8 From 3 seconds, the counting stops and the start signal will be given by the starter between 0 and 5 seconds. If the grid is not to the satisfaction of the starter, he may command a re-start, beginning count down from 30 seconds.
4.2.9 The official starting signal will be audible by means of a horn operated by the starter. This signal will also start the timing systems.
4.2.10 Early starts - ALL FINALS ONLY.
Early starts, i.e. any car touching or crossing the starting line, will be penalised with a stop and go penalty. The duration of this stop and go penalty has a to be determined at the Team Managers’ Meeting and depends on the lap times. This penalty is issued by the starting official or the time-keeping official and has to be announced immediately after the start. The penalty will be marked on the result sheet.
4.2.11 Under no circumstances will the race be stopped due to a jumped start.
4.2.12 Only the Race Director may interrupt the race and order a restart in the event that he considers the starting procedures or the start were not carried out correctly.
4.2.13 DELAYED START - As long as the starter has not called the cars to the starting line, every participant of the semi- finals and the final may request a delay of ten (10) minutes for repairs on his car. The delay will be granted only once for each semi-final and final. The track shall be closed to all cars during the delay period. The driver requesting the delay for whatever reason, except an error in frequencies by Race Control, must start from the back of the grid, six (6) metres/19.68 feet behind the last official grid position.
4.3 MARSHALLING
Marshals will be provided for all racing. No other person is allowed on the track when racing is in progress. If a car stops on the track, it will be returned to the pit area by a marshal. A penalty will be given for any violation of this rule. All marshals must wear closed shoes.
4.4 TECHNICAL
INSPECTION
Only vehicles which conform to all
regulations will be accepted for racing.
Technical inspection will be done on Sunday and Monday. The cars will be examined and, if the
car conforms to the rules, the chassis will be marked. At any time, the Race
Director may ask the competitors to present their cars to the Technical
Inspector. Random inspection will occur on the start line for numbers, tyres,
wings and chassis.
No race will be delayed because of non-compliance by a
competitor. At the completion of
each heat all cars in that heat, whether they finished or not, must be presented
for technical inspection. Cars
which are not presented for technical inspection at the end of a heat will be
disqualified from that heat.
Any race damage will be taken into account. At the end of finals, all
cars will be impounded and may be inspected for engine size, fuel tank capacity,
etc. Any infringement concerning engine, fuel tank and weight will cause
disqualification from a driver's best existing qualifying heat or a
final. For the first infringement,
the disqualified driver’s position will be shown as the last position in that
heat or final.
A second infringement concerning any one of engine, fuel
tank or weight, will cause total and immediate disqualification from the entire
event. The disqualified driver will be placed on the last position of the final
qualifying results and/or the last position of the final positions’
results and he will be noted as a disqualification. Any infringement, other than those
concerning engine, fuel tank and weight, will cause disqualification from that
heat or final and the disqualified driver’s position will be shown as the last
position in that heat or final. All cars must be fitted with a clutch, a braking
system and an exhaust pipe that conforms to the rules.
The engine and
fuel tank may be checked at any time. The volume of the fuel tank will include
all fuel piping and filters up to the carburettor. Following method of
measurement will be used:
-
pinch off pressure lines, - fill the fuel tank completely, - remove fuel pipe
from the carburettor inlet, - connect a calibrated syringe to the fuel line
which has been disconnected from
the carburettor and pull all the fuel into the syringe. The amount of fuel
removed by the syringe will be considered as the total content of the fuel
system.
4.4.1 Only one car per driver will be accepted.
4.4.2 The chassis plate of each car will be marked with the competitor's number.
4.4.3 Only one chassis may be used for all qualifying heats and finals. The only exception to this rule will be in the case of a broken or bent chassis which may be changed with the Race Director's approval. The new chassis must be presented to technical inspection for marking before re-building the car.
4.5
FREQUENCIES
In the case of two drivers
using the same frequency and qualifying for the same final, the higher placed
driver may keep his frequency and the lower placed driver must change. The time
allowed for frequency change will be ten (10) minutes. The lower placed driver
who cannot or will not change his frequency may not take part in the final for
which he qualified. If a driver must change his frequency before the start of a
semi-final or a final, due to an organiser's error, he will be allowed (ten) 10
minutes. If a driver finds his radio defective or has made an error in the
selection of his frequency at the start of a final, the race will not be
delayed. For the entire duration of the event, the frequencies in use by all
drivers will be known only by the Race Director and each individual driver. All
frequency changes must be authorised by the Race Director before the change is
made. The organiser shall not display any driver's transmitter frequency on any
heat sheets, result sheet or race schedule to preserve the security of the frequency control systems. Each
driver in the main final shall be permitted to change his frequency before the
start of the race. Only the Race Director is permitted to know the frequency
used by the main finalists.
4.6 CAR NUMBERS AND LAP COUNTING TRANSPONDERS
Only the numbers supplied by the organiser will be used on the cars. Each participant is responsible for attaching the lap counting transponder to his car. During qualifying, any car starting without a lap counting transponder will not be counted. If a lap counting transponder fails or falls off during the heats, the vehicle will be timed and counted manually, if possible. In this case, the Race Director will verify the results and his decision will be final. During the final, any car without a lap counting transponder will be counted manually by a manual back-up system. Under no circumstances will a heat or a final be re-run due to a car not having a lap counting transponder or failure of the same. This also applies to a car not having the correct numbers and placement of these numbers.
4.7 FLAGS
Start - green flag or national flag.
Finish - chequered flag for final only.
Blue - The car which is blue flagged must allow the car behind him to pass.
Yellow - Danger on the track - slow down.
Black & white - Official warning to the car which is flagged (diagonal).
Black - The car in question must stop immediately in the pits.
Green - Track open.
Red - Track closed. All cars must stop immediately.
The black and white diagonal and the blue flags are recommended but are not compulsory. All flags are under the direction of the Race Director who can delegate and authorise their use.
4.7.1 USE OF THE BLACK FLAG
For:
Drivers who impede the progress of other participants
Unsportsmanlike racing.
Participants driving in a manner deemed to be dangerous by the Race Director
Cars judged by the Race Director to be in an undriveable or dangerous condition. These cars, after the repairs have been carried out, may be allowed to resume.
Cars which lose their bodies or silencers must immediately stop and carry out the necessary repairs after which they may restart.
Cars which have been black flagged may re-enter only with permission from a Race Official.
4.8 RACING REGULATIONS
4.8.1 PROTEST AGAINST A
COMPETITOR OR THE ORGANISER
Protest must be entered by the Team Manager,
in writing, in English language, within ten (10) minutes after the display of
the result or after the incident it concerns, with a deposit of $50 U.S. or
equivalent. The time of display of the result will be written on the result
sheet. The deposit is forfeited if the protest is not upheld and the deposit is
returned if protest is justified. Protests may be handed to the Race Director or
an IFMAR Official. Protests
are processed by the Race Director
and, if necessary, by the Jury. Appeal to IFMAR may be made. IFMAR is not
obliged to handle such appeal. Deposit returned if protest is upheld.
4.8.2 REQUESTS FOR LAP COUNTING CHECKING
Requests do not need to be written and need no deposit. The Team Manager will show to the Race Director the time-lap sheet in question (the one given or displayed by the organiser) and will indicate where he thinks an error has been made. The Race Director will resolve the problem by checking with the second lap counter and, if necessary, with the manual record of stops. The audio/video tape may be used as a last resort, if necessary, for the final result. If the request is justified, the result will be modified immediately and the Race Director will advise the Team Manager, in writing, of the result. After checking, if the Team Manager persists with his request, he will have to present a written protest within ten (10) minutes, including a $50 U.S. deposit.
4.9 PENALTIES AND SANCTIONS
During finals, participants will be allowed to change the bodies of the car with the authorisation of the Race Director, providing the bodies are of the same type and painted in the same colour scheme. In the event of a different body being fitted to the car, the Race Director must give his permission before the participant re-enters the race. Any illegal modification or change made to the car which is found during the technical inspection at the end of the race will automatically entail disqualification of the participant.
EXCEPTIONS:- Tolerances allowed in technical inspection for fuel tanks. Any damage incurred during a heat or final will not entail a forced stop or disqualification of the participant except in the following cases:
- loss of a body (the spoiler does not count as part of the body).
- loss of the silencer or its ability to silence the engine.
- a car which becomes dangerous or undriveable.
- The car in question may re-start after the repairs have been effected.
Any car which, by the fault of another driver, is damaged or obstructed during a heat or final cannot, under any circumstances, be allowed to re-run in another heat. All participants must strictly observe the instructions given by the Race Director, Jury and Referees. The bad sportsmanship and behaviour of any competitor, even outside the official race meeting, which could injure the image and promotion of the sport, may become the object of an official, national or international sanction.
4.10 OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS
All official announcements concerning the race must be made in the English language in the pit area, drivers' stand and mechanics' area.
4.11 OFFICIALS - REFEREES
4.11.1 One IFMAR Referee will be appointed by IFMAR. Approved travel and accommodation expenses will be paid for by IFMAR, EFRA, ROAR, FEMCA and FAMAR equally. The IFMAR Referee will be supported by two (2) appointed deputy referees, one nominated and paid for by the host Bloc and one nominated and paid for by the host country’s association (see General Rule 1.12). They must be experienced and unbiased people with a good knowledge of the English language and the current IFMAR rules and will have acted as a referee at least on national level before.
4.11.2 The main task of the Referees is to observe the racing and, in particular, the good sportsmanship during the racing. They will ensure that the current rules are observed by everyone.
4.11.3 Referees may be called for information by the International Jury when a meeting is called by the Race Director.
4.11.4
Referees must be provided with an area from where all parts of the track,
the drivers’ rostrum and refuelling area can be
observed. The place must be separated from the
drivers’ area to ensure a quiet and undisturbed working area. Protection (walls, roof, etc.) must be
given against all weather conditions.
The place must be equipped with a minimum of three (3) chairs, a table
and a monitor connected to the lapcounting system to show the race order. There must be a separate communication
system with a microphone and speakers direct to the drivers’ rostrum and the
pitlane to enable Referees’ instructions to be heard only by the drivers and the
mechanics in the pitlane. N.B. This system is to be totally separate
from any public address system used for announcements. The organiser is responsible for
providing the Referees with lunch, refreshments and a ticket to the Awards’
Banquet.
4.12 REFEREES’ DUTIES
4.12.1 At all time, during qualifying heats, two of the Referees present will be watching and observing the racing from start to finish.
4.12.2 During finals, all three Referees will observe the racing from start to finish.
4.12.3 During qualifying, the Referees work on an alternative relief schedule.
4.12.4 Only Referees on duty are authorise to make decisions and to issue warnings and instructions.
4.12.5 A Referee may take action after an initial warning but, in all cases, three (3) warnings means automatic disqualification from the event. Any appeal against the Referee's decision must be brought before the International Jury accompanied by a protest fee.
4.13 GUIDELINES REGARDING OFFENCES
4.13.1 Bad sportsmanship during racing, i.e. impeding progress of other participants, deliberate slowing down or walling of another car, deliberate short-cutting of corners and reckless driving in general.
4.13.2 Unsportsmanlike behaviour of drivers, mechanics and Team Managers involved in the racing.
4.13.3 Incorrect use of entry and exit of the pits.
4.13.4 Repairs and refuelling outside the appointed pit area.
4.13.5 Mechanics going onto the track during the race.
4.13.6 Any combination of three warnings will cause disqualification.
4.13.7 Instructions may also be given by the Referees but they do not constitute a warning. Sample of instructions follow under numbers 8 and 9.
4.13.8 Cars that do not conform to the regulations before the start is given or during the race, (i.e. loss of body-shell, exceeding noise rules due to loss or damage of the silencer).
4.13.9 Cars that are in an undriveable or dangerous condition due to damage or malfunctioning of the car (one instruction).
4.13.10 Starting procedure, i.e. writing down early starts and, if necessary, reporting to the Time Keeper. The Time Keeper and the Starter are first responsible to issue starting penalties (one lap penalty). In the event of an early start not being observed, it may be called and noted by the Referee.
4.13.11 It is not the duty or the responsibility of the Referees to check if the cars conform to the technical rules. This is always the responsibility of the Technical Inspector.
4.13.12 All warnings will be announced in the English language with the words: "Car number .... Warning". All instructions will be announced in the English language with the words: "Car number .... Stop". Each competitor must be able to recognise the above English words and statements.
4.14 REFEREES’ AUTHORITY
4.14.1 The IFMAR Referee has the right to use his discretion to issue a penalty instead of a warning for any serious infringement of the rules.
4.14.2 The IFMAR Referee has the right to issue penalties for pit lane infringements. The penalties will range from time in seconds to a one (1) lap penalty.
4.14.3 The IFMAR Referee has the authority to withdraw a World Championship badge (pass) from any person contravening the World Championship Rules or spirit of the World Championship Rules.
4.14.4 The IFMAR Referee has the authority to instruct other Race Officials to take remedial action in any situation which might compromise the well running of the race meeting. Any serious situation will be referred to the most senior IFMAR official present before taking any action.
4.14.5 The Referee issues warnings in case of infringements of any point as described under Rule 4.13 and ultimately may even issue a black flag (disqualification) when there is no response to his warnings.
4.14.6 Warnings and instructions are announced by the Referee himself. He will keep a record of the warnings and instructions used (Referee's notes). Three successive warnings lead to disqualification (black flag).
4.14.7 Instructions issued by the Referee must be observed immediately. All announcements must be made in the English language. Warnings will be posted on the result sheet.
4.14.8 Reasons for warning or instruction will be announced in the English language at time of issue. Further explanation, if necessary, due to language difficulties, will be given to the driver or the Team Manager at the end of the race.
4.14.9 Under no circumstances may a warning or an instruction issued by the Referees lead to the interruption of the whole race.
4.14.10 During the event, only if all three Referees agree, they will have the authority to black flag a driver and/or a whole team, if one member of that team is positively interfering with the racing of another car in the event.
4.14.11 Appeals to the decision of the Referee must be addressed to IFMAR in writing. IFMAR is not obliged to act on such a complaint.
4.15 REFEREES’ REPORT
4.15.1 Referees make up a report to be sent to IFMAR within ten (10) days. The report contains information on the organisation, accommodation and the racing. The Referee's notes have to be included.
4.15.2 A copy of the report is sent to the Organiser of the race meeting. Copies may be obtained on application to IFMAR.
4.16 TIME-KEEPING SUPERVISOR
4.16.1 The Time-Keeping Supervisor is responsible for recording all the individual lap times and total laps plus finishing time of all drivers during all heats and finals. He is responsible for the classification of the results and for selecting of the finals. The Race Director must verify this classification and selection.
4.16.2 After the finish of any heat or final, the results of the first and second time-keeping systems are compared by the Time-Keeping Supervisor and, in case of difference between the two systems, the Time-Keeping Supervisor investigates both results and makes the decision of the final result.
4.16.3 In case of a request for checking of the results, the Time-Keeping Supervisor, together with the Race Director, will check on the questioned result and will make the decision.
4.17 INTERNATIONAL JURY
4.17.1 The International Jury consists of official representatives of each Bloc, which will furnish a minimum of one (1) representative and a maximum of three (3) representatives to serve on the International Jury. Each Bloc will have a total of one vote, regardless of the number of representatives it supplied.
4.17.2 The relevant IFMAR Section Chairman shall always act as Chairman during International Jury Meetings and exercise a casting vote, if necessary. In the absence of the relevant IFMAR Section Chairman, the highest ranking IFMAR official shall take the chair at any International Jury Meetings.
4.17.3 The Race Director
and IFMAR President (see above) are members of the Jury but do not have a vote
in the decisions. The
Referees may be called by the Jury for opinions and
explanations as deemed necessary. All decisions are taken by simple majority
vote.
4.17.4 The International Jury may request evidence and/or presence of drivers involved or Team Managers.
4.17.5 Jury members must be approved by their organisation and a second person appointed to serve in the event of a temporary absence of the official representative.
4.17.6 Prior to the commencement of an International Jury Meeting, any mobile telephones in the meeting room must be turned off and placed on the meeting table until after the completion of the Meeting.
4.18 RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE INTERNATIONAL JURY
4.18.1 To decide in unforeseen situations.
4.18.2 To handle protests not covered by the Race Director's responsibility.
4.18.3 To make official by announcement any decisions voted on by the Team Managers' Committee providing the International Jury agrees with these decisions.
4.18.4 To check that the race is run according to the official rules.
4.18.5 The Chairman of the International Jury will make official the results of the World Championship through the ranking IFMAR Officer present at the event. When necessary, the Race Director calls the International Jury to meet. The International Jury may also be called by IFMAR.
4.18.6 The organiser will provide a room for the International Jury to meet where no-one can interfere with the meeting.
4.18.7 Jury members may not have dual duties or be a race official but may act as a Referee and IFMAR Delegate. The Race Director may appoint a stand-in Referee, if required.
4.18.8 Jury members may be participants in the event but must allow auxiliary jury representatives to serve and vote in any protest involving said jury member as a participant.
4.19 RACE DIRECTOR
4.19.1 The Race Director is responsible to follow the schedule of the event. The Race Director ensures that various tasks under his responsibility are well done, including:
- Time-keeping
- Starts
- Marshalling
- Display of results
- Comments to the public
- Comments to the drivers
- Technical inspection
- Frequency control
4.19.2 The Race Director receives the protests and decides if the International Jury has to meet. He takes urgent decisions or stops a race for safety, rain or any other unforeseen situation. He is under the authority of IFMAR.
4.20 ASSISTANT RACE DIRECTOR
The Assistant Race Director will represent the host country or organisation and will assist the Race Director in co-ordinating all race matters with host organisation officials.
4.21 IFMAR TECHNICAL
INSPECTOR
4.21.1 A Technical Inspector will be appointed by IFMAR to supervise all technical inspection matters.
4.22 TEAM MANAGERS
4.22.1 The Team Manager, or a nominated deputy, must be present during all official racing.
4.22.2 The Team Manager is appointed by his national association.
4.22.3 The responsibilities of the Team
Manager are:
- To be present at the drivers' registration of his
team.
- To be present
at the Technical Control either before, during or after the end of the race in
which his team members participate.
- To look after the welfare and
behaviour of his team and take care that they all receive proper accommodation
in the pit area.
- To attend the Team Managers' Meeting and any driver
briefing/s that the Organiser may call.
- The Team Manager is the link
between the national team and the race direction by receiving all information
referring to timetable changes, frequency changes, results of heats, sub- finals
and finals and all other information referring to the race.
- He is allowed to stay in the pit area when a race has a participant from his team and is in progress.
4.23 TEAM MANAGERS' COMMITTEE
4.23.1 Each country will have a Team Manager who is responsible to pass on complaints, protests or suggestions from his team to the Race Director. The Race Director will then decide whether a Team Managers' Meeting should be called to discuss and vote on the matter raised. If the Race Director does call such a meeting and the majority of the Team Managers support the matter raised, the Race Director must then refer to the International Jury for final decision.
SECTION FIVE - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS – 235mm 4WD CARS
5. Generally the specifications allow cars with four (4) wheel drive. A mechanically operated brake must be fitted acting on the rear wheels only, two (2) speed transmission, 2.5cu. cm (0.152 cu.in) engine, and a minimum weight of 1975 grams/4.3540 lbs. including transponder.
An IFMAR
approved fuel tester NITROMAX 16, will be available to race organisers to verify the conformity of fuel to the
rules.
All measurements referred to in these rules are maximum or minimum
values. All figures in the rules
should be two (2) decimal digits.
5.1 ENGINE RULES
The engines shall be air cooled,