Tyre changes will make F1 safer, says Schumacher

Formula One will be safer next season because of rule changes allowing pitstops for tyres and a reduction in engine size, according to Ferrari's Michael Schumacher.

The seven-times world champion said while he was against repeated changes to the regulations, he backed much of what the sport's governing body had decided for 2006.

"Allowing tyres to be changed again is a big plus in regard to safety," said the German.

"We'll have to wait and see what to make of the new qualifying system. But also the instalment of V8 engines is absolutely sensible for safety reasons in my view."

Formula One banned tyre changes at the end of 2004, with one set of tyres having to last for both qualifying and the race, as part of supposed safety measures designed to reduce rising cornering speeds.

That rule was scrapped by the FIA last week, with teams again allowed to change tyres when they want.

Engines will be less powerful next year, with a switch from the three litre V10 units to 2.4 litre V8s.

The much criticised single lap qualifying system has also been jettisoned for a three-part knockout format that will involve 10 cars running in a final 20-minute session.