As the latest season of Formula 1 starts next week with the Australian GP, a new change is going to be introduced to the scoring system. Although yet to be finalized, the plan is to award an extra point to the driver who sets the fastest lap of the race. But there is a small twist – the bonus point will only be given if the driver finishes in the top 10. According to reliable sources, the move has already been approved by FIA’s World Motor Sport Council and the change will be written into regulations in time for this season’s opening race in Melbourne.
This is not the first time F1 is giving points for fastest laps. Back in the 1950s, it was awarded to drivers who managed to finish the race after setting the fastest lap. The practice ended in 1959.
It will be thrilling to watch drivers competing to set the fastest lap during closing moments of the race to get that extra point. Last season, Valtteri Bottas recorded the fastest laps with seven.
