FIA tweaks grid formation rules for engine penalties

The FIA has confirmed an amendment to F1's sporting rules that should discourage drivers from sitting out qualifying in specific circumstances.

In 2018, a rule called for drivers who exceeded a 15-place demotion to be sent to the back of the grid.

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In the case of multiple demotions, the order on the grid was determined by when the new engine elements were first used, a situation that often led to a driver heading out on to the pitlane well before the start of a practice session, in order to head a queue and ensure a more favourable spot on Sunday's grid.

This week, F1's governing body has now decided that drivers sent to the back of the grid will line up in the order in which they qualify, thus also ensuring participation in the Saturday afternoon session from those who would have theoretically no incentive to take part.

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