Suspicion, innuendo, doubt, mistrust. Well, as from this weekend's Spanish Grand Prix, apparently better off. Because the re-introduction of traction control will cleanse the grid of all illegal engine systems which may or may not have been at work. At least that is the idea of the FIA, F1's governing body, and the hope of many leading figures within the sport. Time will tell, for example, if Ralf Schumacher's storming start into the lead at Imola will ever be repeated.
Traction control is just a question of concentration because it is so easy.
But remember this as the arguments fly back and back over the next few days. If only Barcelona could serve up something as special. Traditionally, that does not happen. The race in 1999 did more for lawn mowers than for grand prix fans. It was desperately processional.