Bernie Ecclestone has come out in support of Formula 1's new elimination-style qualifying format, believing fans, teams and drivers should give it a chance before casting judgement.
The new format was widely condemned from all corners as it caused confusion and resulted in very little running as it neared its conclusion, with pole position decided several minutes before the session ended.
Agreement was sought to return to the old format and a vote will take place this week to that effect – though a compromise now looks more likely.
Ecclestone doesn't believe ditching it after one race is the right decision, although he admits himself that he was confused.
"I was confused as it was the first run and all the variables couldn't have been predicted, like how it was decided in Q3. We can improve it," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"If I were to give an opinion, I would say we will continue with the format from Australia," he added.
"I am a prudent man, and new things must be tested. The new qualifying caused a bit of shock, but maybe we can salvage the good of the format."
The 85-year-old is of the opinion that the system can be exciting for the sport and in turn can draw viewers back to reverse F1's falling viewing figures around the world.
"I am an entrepreneur and I must sell Formula 1 to the race organisers. If fans no longer watch then I have less money to give the teams.
"I have to find the best solution and having drivers eliminated every 90 seconds could be exciting."
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