MARCH 11, 2004

Broadcasters up in arms about F1 format

We hear that the Formula 1 broadcasters have got together to try to convince the Formula 1 authorities to change the qualifying regulations, arguing that it is impossible to schedule the new format because the length of the qualifying is dependent not on a fixed time limit but rather on the length of the race track and whether or not there are any accidents and incidents. They want to see the new two-run qualifying format replaced by something which is easier to predict and which offers more entertainment as the show which was produced at the Australian GP was not a big success.

It is likely that the current system will remain in place for a couple more races until the full extent of the problem is revealed. It is anticipated that the F1 team bosses will get together in Malaysia to discuss the situation.