Todt against reverse grids in F1 - but won't fight idea

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FIA president Jean Todt is against the introduction of reverse grids in Formula 1, but the Frenchman won't fight the concept if a majority of teams support it.

The idea of a reverse grid qualifying race was tabled earlier this year but was ultimately rejected as the subsequent vote didn't not reach the unanimous vote it required.

But F1's eventful races at Monza and Mugello have revived the concept, with the sport's director of motorsport Ross Brawn insisting the idea is not without merit as a way of improving Grand Prix racing's format.

"Unfortunately, we could not move forward with it, but the concept is still something we and the FIA want to work through in the coming months and discuss with the teams for next year," Brawn said after the Italian Grand Prix.

But Todt - who was delighted with Pierre Gasly's surprise win at Monza - isn't all that keen on exploiting a gimmick to boost the thrill out on the track.

"Surprises are the essence of sport," the president of F1's governing body told Auto Motor und Sport.

"But I already don’t like reverse grids in Formula 2 and Formula 3. That’s not racing for me. Artificial tension doesn’t work.

"I will vote against it. But if the majority is in favour, I will accept it."

Read also: Wolff: F1 wrong to design 'freak results' with reverse grids

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff is also against reverse grids, insisting F1 must remain "a meritocracy where the best man and bast machine wins."

Another staunch opponent, Sebastian Vettel, also argued against the idea, contending that the concept would validate F1's failure to produce a set of rules that allow for better competition.

"If you are pushing in that direction, it's a testimony that you failed to come up with regulations and tools that bring the field more together and make racing better on the track," said the Ferrari driver.

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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.