New qualifying better for TV

The revised Formula 1 qualifying system attracted favourable comment in Australia, and looks set to provide a more interesting television spectacle for the rest of the year.

The top 10 Q3 session has been cut to 10 minutes, and more importantly the fuel-burning element that proved so unpopular has been removed by the simple expedient of forcing cars to start the race with the fuel load they end qualifying with.

Drivers have opted to go for two runs on new tyres, but they have the option of abandoning the second if the clock shows that it will not be an improvement. By slowing and coming into the pits they can save a little fuel for the race.

The session is more intriguing than before because drivers go from running no fuel at the end of Q2 to running with a load of 15-20 laps-worth. The change in balance provides quite a challenge.