Daniel Ricciardo is pleased another bid to introduce reverse grid qualifying races failed for 2020.
As Formula 1 tries to get back on track post-coronavirus, as many as five circuits could host two Formula 1 championship races, with Spielberg and Silverstone already pencilled in to do just that.
To try and add some variety to the second weekend, the previously rejected idea of a qualifying sprint race with the grid formed in reverse championship order was again put forward but was again shelved after Mercedes blocked the motion.
While some criticised the German manufacturer’s position, Ricciardo likely echoed the view of many drivers by welcoming their opposition.
“I’m not always old-school, but I guess it’s not really the first on our priority list of things to change in the sport,” the 2021 McLaren driver said during an F1 Instagram live interview.
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“I can see how some fans would be like ‘yeah, it would be great to have the fast guys trying to come through the field’ and all of that. I see that point of view.
“There are a lot of scenarios where it wouldn’t work, and it would make things a little messy.
“I can see why from a couch potato [point of view], as I am right now, it could be exciting.
“But I think from a purist and a real racing point of view, I don’t think we need to go there just yet. That’s the best way to say it.”
Instead, it now appears the most likely way doubleheaders will be varied is through tyre compounds after Pirelli announced allocations on Thursday.
Though Austria will see the same middle three compounds used on both weekends, Silverstone will see the rubber go one step softer from C1, C2 & C3 for the British Grand Prix to C2, C3 & C4 for the second event dubbed the 70th Anniversary GP.
“With so many variables at the start of this delayed season, and a flexible calendar that doesn’t leave much time to react to changing circumstances, it was agreed with the teams, the promoter and the FIA to announce the compound nominations for the first eight races this year all together,” said Pirelli chief Mario Isola.
“As usual, these compounds have been chosen to best match the characteristics of the individual circuit and provide interesting opportunities for race strategy.”
The full list of compounds can be seen below:
