New qualification format for 2010

The new technical and sporting regulations for the 2010 Formula 1 World Championship have just been published. The main attraction lies in a modification of the qualifying procedure to account for the presence of 26 cars on the starting grids. The qualifying session will still be divided into three parts, but now the eight slowest drivers will be eliminated after 20 minutes (Q1), followed by eight more for the second part (Q2). Finally, as in recent years, the remaining 10 best drivers will compete for pole position in 10 minutes. With a five-minute break between each session, the session still lasts an hour.

Moreover, Q3 will now be conducted with a low level of fuel since this takes into account the refueling ban that is set to apply in 2010. Another important point in this announcement, published on the FIA’s website, is that the current points system will be retained, contrary to Bernie Ecclestone’s wishes. The Briton had made headlines during the off-season by wanting to introduce a medal system instead of points, but it seems that gold, silver, and bronze medals will remain shelved for the moment.

The minimum weight of each single-seater has been raised to 620 kg to account for the added value from the KERS, which will still be allowed under the regulations next year despite the FOTA agreement not to use this system. Tire warmers will also be permitted despite indications that suggested their ban on cost reduction grounds.

Finally, the document contains no governance proposal, a topic that was at the center of the news between the governing bodies and the FOTA before the signing of the Concorde Agreements last month.