Ecclestone still wants qualifying change

Bernie Ecclestone is still fighting to get the qualifying format changed after a proposal for a new system from the teams failed to materialize. Originally all the team principals signed an agreement to have an hour-long qualifying split into two 25 minute sessions, with a 10 minute break in between. However, one or two then backed out of the deal and the new format was not passed as it requires unanimous agreement.

Ecclestone still wants to see a change as soon as possible. "I'm very frustrated. What we've got is no good," he told the BBC. "I don't care if people don't agree, but when they agree and then change their minds.... that's what little girls do, not grown men."

Reportedly some of the smaller teams were concerned they would miss out on television coverage as broadcasters focused on the front runners, something that would not make their sponsors very happy. Ferrari is not keen on a change, although would not object if everyone else agreed.

The FIA said no changes to qualifying would happen for this weekend's British Grand Prix. "The discussion has just begun and it will not be possible for the voting procedures to be completed in time for Silverstone," said a spokesperson.

Max Mosley was also complaining about the team bosses changing their minds too much, citing it as one of the reasons for him resigning his post as FIA President in October.

"I've got to the point now where I no longer find it interesting or satisfying to sit in long meetings, particularly with the Formula One teams and the World Rally Championship teams, where people often agree things and then they go away after the meeting and change their mind completely," Mosley said at the French Grand Prix.