Innovations such as DAS, Flexi-wings, fuel-rates, mass, etc can be decided in a way as to advantage a particular design philosophy.

The FIA could direct Pirelli to spec tyres that most suit the Mercedes. Back in the day Schumacher benefited greatly from his tyres being specifically designed around his Ferrari, with other teams with the brand having to make do.

Financially, measures such as the capital expenditure cost cap waiver could be wielded to harm the competition.