Revised qualifying format proposed for Melbourne

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A revised qualifying format could be introduced from the start of this season, retaining part of the old system.

A meeting of Charlie Whiting and the sporting directors took place on Tuesday, seeking a solution for the qualifying proposals which had appeared to be under threat. After an elimination-style qualifying was announced last week, Bernie Ecclestone warned it would not be possible to introduce before the Spanish Grand Prix.

However, a compromise has now been suggested, with the first two sessions to feature the planned elimination format as drivers would be knocked out at 90-second intervals. Q3 would then retain the same format as at present, with a 12 minute session involving eight cars - rather than ten as previously - fighting for pole position without elimination.

The format wold work as follows:

Q1

  • 16 minutes
  • After 7 minutes, slowest driver eliminated
  • Slowest driver eliminated every 1 minute 30 seconds thereafter until the chequered flag
  • 7 drivers eliminated, 15 progress to Q2

Q2

  • 16 minutes
  • After 7 minutes, slowest driver eliminated
  • Slowest driver eliminated every 1 minute 30 seconds thereafter until the chequered flag
  • 7 drivers eliminated, 8 progress to Q3

Q3

  • 12 minutes
  • 8 drivers battle for pole position

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