27/06/2004
NEWS STORY
With Bernie Ecclestone's proposal for the new qualifying format due to be rubber-stamped by the team bosses on Monday - would they dare to say no? - this is how GP Saturday's will look from the British GP onwards.
The free practice sessions will run from 10:00 to 10:45 and 11:15 to 12:00 local time.
There will be no pre-qualifying session.
The qualifying session will begin at 14:00 and will consist of two sessions of 25 minutes each, separated by a 10-minute-break.
Each driver may complete no more than six laps in each session.
If the red flag is shown, any driver out on the track will be given two extra laps, except for drivers on their 'out lap', who will be given one extra lap.
Each driver's grid position will be determined by the aggregate time from his fastest lap in each of the two qualifying sessions.
If a driver fails to set a time in either session he will start the race from the back of the grid.
Parc Fermé conditions will apply from the moment a car crosses the pit lane exit for the first time in the first qualifying session. During the two qualifying sessions (and interval), only refuelling, a change of tyres or front wing angle adjustment will be permitted.
If a damaged car is repaired it must be proven that identical parts were used for the repair. Replacement parts must receive retrospective FIA approval with the damaged part retained for inspection.
Cars may be refuelled at any time before the start of the race in the pit team's designated pit area.
The drivers must start the race using the set of tyres used when they set their fastest lap in either of the qualifying sessions.
Any car stopping on the track during the first session will be recovered and returned to the team prior to the start of the second session provided its driver completed a timed lap in the first session.