F1: Revised knockout qualifying to proceed

Formula 1 has refined plans for a new qualifying system, with the revised format set to be introduced in time for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix.

The elimination-style qualifying format voted for by the F1 Commission will be enforced but only for the first two segments of the session, following fresh discussions. Q3 will remain the same, but it will feature only eight drivers, rather than 10 as was previously the case.

Q1 and Q2 will last 16 minutes each and after seven minutes, drivers will start getting knocked out at 90-second intervals. That will leave eight drivers to fight for pole in a 12-minute shootout to ensure the drama at the end of the segment remains.

When the idea was first mooted, the intricacies of how it would work were unclear and it received a lukewarm response from the drivers. F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone had said it could not be introduced until the Spanish Grand Prix in May because of the complexities of changing the software. But it is believed a solution has been found to enable the revised format to be introduced in Melbourne in just over two weeks, and avoid confusing fans with a change during the season.

The new format still requires ratification by the World Motor Sport Council.

Originally on Autosport.com