Formula One is set to keep the current points system for 2019 and beyond despite talks that the points-paying positions could be extended down to 15th in the future. FIA race director Charlie Whiting confirmed that an agreement had not been reached between the teams.
Talks have taken place between teams and the FIA which have discussed the possibility of all 20 positions paying points however a more likely scenario would be points extending down to 15th instead of 10th.
“It’s been discussed. It’s not like a 2021 rule it’s something that if everyone had agreed to we would look at introducing it for 2019 but there wasn’t agreement on that," Whiting is quoted as saying by RaceFans.
Team bosses have also discussed the need for different points values if the system was extended to more than ten points positions with the current gaps between places not enough according to some.
“I think a one-point gap is not enough in my opinion,” said Haas team principal Guenther Steiner. “Because between seventh and eighth, it’s a one point gap, between being 15th and 14th is a one-point gap, I think that’s not the right proportion. I think there needs to be a little more investigation.”
F1 motorsport chief Ross Brawn also acknowledged the possibility the points system could be changed earlier in the season, but did add that the decision would not be taken lightly.
“It’s a big decision to change it. If we change it, it needs to be left alone for 10 years, we don’t want to keep messing with it.”