F1: New qualifying format for F1 in 2009?

[Rory Phoulorie]

Monday, 24th November 2008

In a further bid to spice up the action, F1 could be in for its latest qualifying overhaul in 2009, should the Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA) get its way.

Formula 1 could be set for yet another overhaul of its qualifying format next season, with a new version of the current �knock-out' system due to be evaluated at the next meeting of the FIA World Motor Sport Council (WMSC).

According to Spanish newspaper Marca, the Formula One Teams' Association is keen to discuss a new procedure whereby all 20 cars are on-track with low fuel to begin with for a 14-lap sprint � with the slowest car being eliminated after each lap until only six are left.

Following a short break � during which the remaining half dozen drivers will be permitted to return to the pits for new tyres and fuel � there will be a final session with the fastest claiming pole position, as well as a point and possible prize money.

FOTA are due to discuss the initiative in more detail at a meeting next month, and if agreed, a proposal will be made to the WMSC, which would need to ratify it before it comes into being.

The new format � should it be introduced � could go alongside F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone's desire to see an Olympic-style medal system implemented for the top three finishers in each grand prix.

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