FIA gives Ecclestone/Todt mandate to change F1

In an extraordinary move by the World Motor Sport Council, it was announced that Todt and Ecclestone would be allowed to take action on governance structure, engines and cost cuts, amid frustrations about the way teams are blocking progress.

In a statement issued by the FIA after the WMSC's hearing in Paris on Wednesday, it said: "The World Motor Sport Council approved, by a near unanimous number (just one vote against), a mandate for the FIA President, Jean Todt and the Representative of the Commercial Rights Holder, Bernie Ecclestone to make recommendations and decisions regarding a number of pressing issues in Formula One such as governance, Power Units and cost reduction.

"Mr Todt and Mr Ecclestone expressed their intention to establish conclusions on these matters by 31 January, 2016."

Technical changes

The FIA also approved a relaxation of the number of tokens engine manufacturers can use over the next few years, starting with 32 for next year and dropping to 25 for 2017.

The padded areas around the driver's head have been increased in thickness for improved safety.

Tyre tweaks

The FIA also approved changes to the tyre rules to deliver some freedom for teams to choose their own compounds.

Pirelli will now bring three compounds at each race, with teams having freedom to pick which type of rubber they want for 10 of their 13 sets available over a weekend.

VSC

A rule change to re-enable the Virtual Safety immediately after it has been used was approved, while the VSC may now also be used in practice sessions to avoid red flag periods.