Mercedes dominated the 2014 Formula One racing season and there was not a damn thing main contenders Ferrari and Renault could do about it because the rules stated that no engine modifications could occur after the first race of the year – only, it turns out, the rules never actually said that. The engine rule in question was merely interpreted that way and never actually stated that teams could not modify their engines during the course of the season.
After this discrepancy was pointed out by Ferrari following the final race of the 2014 season at Abu Dhabi, the FIA has relented and will allow engine modifications during the season for 2015 with a maximum of four engines per car for the year. However, while current engine manufacturers Ferrari, Mercedes and Renault will enjoy the rule interpretation change, new engine manufacturer Honda must still submit its engine for the 2015 season by February 28, 2015 and will not be allowed to modify.
The first race of the 2015 Formula One racing season takes place in Melbourne, Australia on March 15, 2015.