F1 to switch to knock-out qualifying

Formula One will swithch to a knock-out qualifying system next season after an F1 Commission meeting in London. Qualifying will take part in three phases, with five cars dropping out after the first 15 minutes and another five following a second stint.

The remaining 10 cars will then compete for pole position in a 20 minute finale designed to maximise TV excitement.

Tyre changes is also making a return after being scrapped this season, despite objections from some team. The return to slick tyres and a move to run a single tyre supplier were also passed for a provisional introduction 2007.

A proposal for a radical new rear wing concept, designed to facilitate overtaking, also won the support of teams for 2007 subject to further input from their thechnical directors.
Max Mosley, FIA president "This new research is important for the future of Formula One. By introducing the CDG wing we can give motorsport fans exactly what they have asked for, wheel-to-wheel racing with much more overtaking."

The proposed rule changes that were not accepted were the banning of spare cars for 2006 and the end of third cars running in Friday practice sessions.
The current single-lap qualifying format, with each car running alone against the clock, has been much criticised by teams and broadcasters. The new system was developed by F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone.
Ecclestone, Mosley, sponsors, promoters and representatives from all 10 teams were among those at the meeting.

Paul Stoddart, outgoing Minardi head, was wary on the qualifying changes, while he said the tyre changes would lead to a tyre war.
Paul Stoddart "Time will tell with the qualfying change. But the tyre changes will bring a tyre war and a massive escalation in costs. I do not think it's the smartest move. Only time will tell if it is a good day for Formula One or a bad day. But I don't think it will prove to be a good day."