On this day... 20 February (2003) - The FIA is trying to 'dumb down' Formula One - Ron Denni

Ron Dennis accused the FIA of dictatorial behaviour after it banned refuelling and set-up changes between qualifying and the race as well as putting an end to teams changing settings remotely while the car is on track. Dennis claimed: "The FIA is trying to 'dumb down' Formula One." In the end 2003 turned out to be one of the most competitive seasons in years and the rule changes, as well as some more dramatic ones since, still stand today.

1997

Frank Williams, Patrick Head and Adrian Newey along with three officials from the Imola race circuit were put on trial in Italy, charged with culpable homicide for the death of Ayrton Senna. The case rumbled through the Italian legal system for nearly a whole year before all six were cleared of all charges.

2001

Max Mosley announced he would stand for a third term as president of the FIA. Needless to say he was re-elected by the World Motor Sport Council, giving birth to yet another four years of his autocratic and often controversial style of governing. He was elected once more in 2005 before deciding not to stand in 2009, after revelations about his private life nearly forced him to resign.

1937

Roger Penske was born in Ohio, USA. He raced in just two grand prix in 1961 and 1962, holding his own against motorsport's elite at the tough Watkins Glen circuit. He was well known as a racing driver but became a household name when he set up his own team in 1965. It entered three F1 championships in 1974, 1975 and 1976, with a best overall finish of fifth in its final season. However, it was in the USA where the team really made its name, winning 10 CART championships and an IndyCar title. It has also been successful in sports car racing, notably with the LMP2 Porsche RS Spyder in the American Le Mans Series and at the Le Mans 24 Hours.

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