Abu Dhabi will once again close the Formula One season next year – but there will be no double points on offer for the drivers after the controversial scheme was scrapped.
The World Motor Sport Council yesterday ratified a decision taken following a meeting of the Formula One Commission in Geneva last week.
The scheme was introduced at the behest of supremo Bernie Ecclestone in an effort to prolong the life of the championship and
attract high television audiences through to the final race. It was condemned by fans, whilst drivers past and present also voiced their disapproval.
The recent campaign would still have gone to the wire in Abu Dhabi even if there had been no double points on offer.
Lewis Hamilton could have lost the championship on double points to Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg if a certain set of circumstances had unfolded but he emerged victorious to claim his second world championship.
Following the WMSC’s meeting in Qatari capital Doha, it has also been decided there will be no standing restarts behind the safety car.
The F1 Commission voted in the idea earlier this year, but following a thorough review of the potential difficulties, that too has been axed.
The WMSC has agreed, however, to the introduction of the ‘virtual safety car’ (VSC) which was successfully piloted at the end of practice sessions at recent grands prix.
The system arose following Jules Bianchi’s accident at the Japanese Grand Prix in early October, with the Frenchman still in hospital in Nice as he recovers from severe head injuries.
The FIA quickly reviewed how best to control a driver’s speed during incidents where a safety car is not required, deciding
the VSC, where a speed limit is imposed around the track, was the solution.
From 2016, the rules regarding the awarding of a super licence which allows a driver to compete in F1 be also be changed in response to a sudden influx of young and potentially under-qualified drivers.
In past years all a driver primarily had to do was complete a total of 300kms on track in an F1 car. Now a driver will be required to hold a valid driving licence, be at least 18 years of age, and understand the sporting regulations and international sporting code.
They must also have two years’ experience in minor formulas, whilst a points system requirement will be also be applied based on a driver’s results in those formulas.
In addition to the changes, the Korean GP is set to make surprise reappearance on the calendar, although it is to be confirmed. The grand prix was scrapped this season due to lack of funds and poor attendances.
