Formula One news

Ecclestone to replace points for medals?

Formula 1 could see even more changes next season as Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone has said the FIA is considering to introduce medals in F1. Ecclestone confirmed that he is seriously considering dropping the points-based drivers' championship for a medal-based title race, which should make it more exciting.

In case the FIA would introduce a medal-system in Formula 1 the winning driver will receive a gold medal, with a silver and bronze medal for second and third instead. So instead of receiving 10, 8 and 6 points the podium finishers will go home with a nice and shiny medal. Anyone not finishing on the podium would not receive any points but their finishing position will remain important for their overall ranking. The constructors' championship would remain unchanged and will still be based on a points system.

The medal-system could be introduced as early as next season. "The FIA and all the teams are behind it and it will be done," Ecclestone was quoted by British newspaper The Times. "Everybody understands gold medals and silver and bronze. Nearly all sports are done that way. The whole point will be, when they get to Melbourne for the first race, the guys will want to leave there with a gold medal. They don't want to leave with ten, eight or six points.

"The need for it was highlighted at the Brazilian Grand Prix at the end of this season when Hamilton only had to finish in the top five to win the title, not win. So this will encourage overtaking."

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