F1 is set for a big rules shake-up in 2021, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be changes in 2020 too. There have been discussions, for example, about potential changes to the qualifying format – but F1 motorsport boss Ross Brawn has moved to clarify that any such moves would be purely experimental in nature.

“In recent days I’ve read a variety of statements from drivers and pundits concerning ideas to make the race weekend format more spectacular,” said Brawn.

“To try to clarify the situation and avoid misunderstandings, there are discussions about experimenting in 2020 with changes to the qualifying format with the aim of making a Grand Prix weekend a little less predictable.

“I want to emphasise the word ‘experiment’ because this is what it is about – a small sample to establish the directions for the future. We are all too aware that the current qualifying format is exciting and spectacular but what is also important is to make sure that the race, the highlight of the weekend, is the best it can be.”