The car was therefore more conservative and reliable than in the previous year, and the team's success was slightly greater, if not a quantum leap forward.

McLaren designer Adrian Newey seemingly signed a contract with the team, but quickly changed his mind and remained with his current employers.

It was seen that such a replacement was inevitable, as Lauda had initially arrived in the team whilst Rahal was in charge.

At the Italian and United States Grands Prix, the car ran with a black engine cover with an American flag in response of the September 11 attacks.

A Jaguar R2 runs in the BOSS GP driven by French driver Didier Sirgue.