F1: Fans will be asked to vote for best driver after each race
A "driver of the day" award voted for by fans was one of the innovations discussed by the Formula One Strategy Group on Monday, and subsequently the F1 Commission in Geneva today.
It's understood that fans will be invited to choose the best driver performance and best overtaking move at each race, via social media. In the early 1970s, Marlboro backed the Prix Rouge et Blanc Jo Siffert Award for the "underdog" drive of the day. Although it wasn't formally sanctioned by the governing body, it was regarded as as prestigious achievement at the time.
In addition to the driver of the day award, there will be another for best overtaking move - also voted for by fans. A pit stop challenge is also to be introduced, with a trophy for the fastest team of mechanics.
No more details have emerged and it's not clear whether both prizes will be introduced for this season.
These prizes follow from a pattern established by the FIA Pole Position trophy and the DHL Fastest Lap Award. The latter suggests that naming rights for any new prize might also be taken up by a partner of Formula One Management.
The main subject of discussion this week involved engines. Meanwhile, plans for a return of refueling didn't gain any traction There is also ongoing talk about the race weekend format.
