A proposal to introduce a point for fastest lap in 2019 faces a final vote after being given the green light by the World Motor Sport Council.
Liberty Media has reportedly pushed for the late inclusion, which would see the extra point awarded providing the driver also finished in the top 10 in the race.
Now though, unanimous team support must be given with an electronic vote set to take place before the Australian Grand Prix.
It’s far from a new idea with other series offering bonus points for poles and fastest laps and F1 has also seen the rule in place before during the 1950s.
It is possible it could spur drivers just outside the top 10 to pit and move up through the field late on or provide the leader with another target, as Sebastian Vettel was notable for posting fastest laps on the final lap during his Red Bull days.
Previous suggestions for changing the overall points system remain unconsidered though, with the same 25 points for a win, down to one point for 10th in place.
