Formula 1 will now delve deeper into its proposed sprint race idea after teams offered “broad support” in a meeting on Thursday.
It is understood F1 bosses want to trial a new format which would see Friday qualifying for a 100km race on Saturday, with the top eight scoring points in a revised system.
The result from that sprint race would then set the grid for Sunday’s main Grand Prix.
Canada, Italy and Brazil, three circuits known for high amounts of overtaking, have reportedly been earmarked to use the new format this season.
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And after three failed attempts at replacing qualifying with a sprint race in which the grid was decided by reversing the championship order, this concept does look to have been met more favourably.
“All teams recognised the major importance of engaging fans in new and innovative ways to ensure an even more exciting weekend format,” said the FIA on Thursday.
“There was, therefore, broad support from all parties for a new qualifying format at some races, and a working group has been tasked with creating a complete plan with the aim to reach a final decision before the start for the 2021 championship.”
It is understood, the working group will focus on potential risks and additional costs the proposed format could incur, giving teams more information for when they do make the final vote.
