Formula 1 is set to introduce a radical tweak to the current qualifying format which will see drivers eliminated every 90 seconds, which the sport’s bosses hope will improve the show.
Team bosses met with FIA president Jean Todt and Bernie Ecclestone on Tuesday in Geneva to discuss 2017 rule changes, but also took the opportunity to discuss other ideas, qualifying amongst many others.
A change to qualifying’s current format gained majority support and it is therefore likely it will be introduced and pushed through for the 2016 season, though could be delayed until 2017, pending a World Motor Sport Council vote.
It involves the slowest car being eliminated every 90 seconds after a set period of time, which it’s hoped will ensure constant on-track action and a more unpredictable outcome.
Exact details have yet to be confirmed, but will be over the next few days.
Qualifying would retain the current Q1, Q2 and Q3 sessions, but would last 16, 15 and 14 minutes with a ‘safe period’ of between seven, six and five minutes respectively where drivers can set a time without the fear of being knocked out.
However, after that ‘safe period’ has ended, the slowest driver will be eliminated every 90 seconds until just 15 remain for Q1 and eight for Q2. The final pole shoot-out would therefore feature eight drivers, with further knockouts until just two are left to fight for pole in the final 90 seconds.
Another proposal would see time ballast added in order of championship standing. For example, the championship leader would have a set amount of time added to their lap, with those behind in the standings receiving less time ballast up until tenth in the standings.
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