Formula 1 mulling 'point for fastest lap' scheme for 2019!

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A last-minute change to Formula 1's 2019 sporting rules could see drivers rewarded with a championship point for setting the fastest lap during a race.

The rule change is set to be submitted at the FIA World Motor Sport Council meeting scheduled for Thursday in Geneva, according to a report from RaceFans.net.

A thumbs up from the WMSC would forward the proposal to F1's Strategy Group and F1 Commission for a pressing e-vote before the WMSC permanently endorses the rule.

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The new scheme is apparently the result of a fan survey and research undertaken by Liberty Media, and is seen as a tool to potentially spice up the show.

The first thought that comes to mind is a possible scenario where drivers racing at the rear end may be enticed to pit for a fresh set of tyres before going all-out in a mad-dash glory run in the closing stages of a race.

The concept of a point awarded for pole, which was also under consideration, was discarded because it could potentially allow a driver to win the championship by a single unit thanks to an effort conducted in qualifying on Saturday rather than on race day.

Should the new rule fail to pass muster this week, it could be put on the docket for next season.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.