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MotoGP cost cutting rules announcedThe first steps in reducing the costs of competing in the MotoGP World Championship have been officially announced by the Grand Prix Commission, following a meeting at the FIM headquarters at Geneva on Wednesday. Made in response to the global financial crises and Kawasaki's factory withdraw, which has potentially reduced the 2009 MotoGP field to just four manufacturers and 17 riders, the six rule changes include the expected reduction in track and test time - plus a limit on engine changes - but also ban launch control, electronic suspension and ceramic composite materials for brake discs or pads. With the new racing season starting on April 12 and the 2009 machinery already built (click here for an insight into the aims and time constraints surrounding the new regulations) reducing running costs, recently described as 'huge' by LCR boss Lucio Cecchinello, was one area that could be most easily influenced. Maintenance and running costs will be lowered by cutting track time during a grand prix weekend, limiting post-race tests and extending engine life (during the second half of the season). GP track time will be reduced by cancelling the Friday morning free practice session (for all three classes) and reducing the three remaining MotoGP practice sessions - including qualifying - from one hour to 45 minutes. Warm-up time and race distance are unchanged. Post race testing will be allowed on just two occasions, after Catalunya (June 14) and Czech GP (August 16) and even then “test riders only are permitted.” Engine life will be extended by limiting each rider to five engines for the final eight rounds of 2009. “No changing of parts will be permitted except daily maintenance”, although no penalties for breaking the rule were announced.