A proposal for a new qualifying format for formula one in 2009 could be tabled at the forthcoming meeting of the FIA's World Motor Sport Council.

According to widespread media sources, the new system - featuring a new session format, as well as possible prize-money and a point for pole position - is championed by the alliance of F1 teams, FOTA.

They have committed to discussing the proposal in more detail at a meeting early next month.

The website of the Spanish newspaper Marca reveals that, under the new system, all 20 cars would enter the circuit with low levels of fuel for a 14-lap sprint, with the slowest car eliminated after each lap.

During a short break, the surviving six cars will then return to the pits for new tyres and fuel and then compete for pole position and a world championship point.

If agreed by FOTA, the proposal would then require ratification by the World Motor Sport Council.

Source. GMM