"Rule changes imposed for 1998 are a major factor in our decision," stated a spokesman for Goodyear in today's surprising announcement of Goodyear to leave Formula One in 1998.

Goodyear held a tyre monopoly in Formula One from 1991 through 1996 until Japanese tyre manufacturer Bridgestone entered this year. Michelin is rumoured to replace the Wolverhampton company. However, top teams who were supplied by Goodyear are likely to switch to Bridgestone for 1999.

Goodyear also stated that the rising costs of Formula One influenced their withdrawal.

Giancarlo Fisichella will participate in rally of Monza this weekend. He will drive a Subaru Imprezza. He said he is only doing it for the fun of it but winning would be nice. This is his first time in a rally car.

It could be that Benetton is the first team to have their 1998 car ready. The Benetton Mecachrome (B198) should make it's first laps on the Silverstone circuit on December 16.