The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile(FIA) have decided to bring in swiping changes to the qualifying format in Formula One, prior to the start of the 2016 season next month. The strategy group of Formula One, consisting of big names of Bernie Eccleston and chief of FIA Jean Todt among others, met in Switzerland on Tuesday to discuss means to improve the sport.
The new qualifying system will see the slowest driver get eliminated every 90 seconds after a timed period in order to have a greater sense of unpredictability, whereas the earlier system had a stretch of three sessions(Q1, Q2 and Q3).
A more efficient cockpit protection system is also likely to be put in place from next year onwards with “Halo”, being the preferred choice. The apex body announced an award fro the “Driver of the Day”, that would be voted by the fans.
The discussions revolved not just about the changes to the qualifying format, but with respect to the cars as well. The FIA also revealed the new bodywork regulations that have been adopted like wider tyres and bigger wings in cars to make it more challenging for drivers.
Although still under evaluation, The new format has found unanimous support from the Formula One commission and it does look certain that they will be put to use when the team assemble in Melbourne next month for the opening race of the season.
