F1 News
Mattia Binotto: Teams agree "mini-race" on a Saturday to determine grid positions
- Bobby Vincent
Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto has said during an interview that all teams (including Ferrari) have reached an agreement for a mini-race on Saturday instead of qualifying to determine the starting grid for the race on Sunday.
"All teams have said yes, including us," Binotto told Gazetta dello Sport. "So in 2020, it will be done."
This presumably means the agreement will be confirmed and the ideas will be presented to the public by next year; meaning the changes won't be made until the 2021 season, with the other regulation alterations also coming into effect.
This would mean instead of qualifying, where it is the driver who sets the best time in Q3 will be on pole position for the race the following day, there would be a mini-race in place and whoever wins the race will be at the front of the grid for the following day.
It's certainly an idea that fits will with Liberty Media's vision to try and make the Formula 1 category of motorsport more exciting for the viewers. We could see the mini-races implemented in grands prix next season and if they work well and get a positive reception, a permanent position will be considered.