The series remained unchanged for about a decade, but increasing costs meant the popularity of the series was waning by the mid 1990s.
In 1996, new rules were introduced. These introduced a single engine, chassis and tyre manufacturer for the series. The following year the calendar was combine with that of Formula One, so the series became support races for the Grand Prix. These measure decreased the costs and popularity grew. In 2000, the series was restricted to 15 teams of 2 cars each.
Over the years, the following drives have become champion:
Champions
Three past F3000 champions have never appeared in an F1 race: Bourdais and Junqueira both race in Champ Cars, Muller races touring cars. A fourth champion, Sospiri, has attempted to qualify for a race and failed to make it, having raced for a highly unprepared team with poor equipment. It is uncertain at the moment where Wirdheim will race in 2004.
Three of them have won a F1 Grand Prix: Alesi, Panis and Montoya (who also won the Indy 500 once).