Massa proposes a ‘trial championship’

After mentioning the idea some time ago of shorter Grand Prix races in terms of distance (ultimately supported by the FOTA), Felipe Massa proposes another reform to enhance the appeal of Formula 1.

The Ferrari driver mentioned this week during the Jerez tests the existence of a ‘test championship’ alongside, of course, the traditional Driver and Constructor Championships.

« We could hold two, three, or four test sessions spread throughout the season and introduce a testing championship where the winner would earn a bonus for the real world championship, » explained the 27-year-old Brazilian.

Despite the ban on in-season testing, effective from this year, Massa argues that the increase in the value of unofficial tests (outside of race weekends) could attract new sponsors as well as other media.

« We could perhaps have a test session in the morning and some sort of big qualifying in the afternoon, » added Massa.

This proposal could involve reforming the official structure of a Grand Prix weekend. Indeed, these practice days detailed by Massa could take place on Friday and would, in a way, be an extension of Saturday’s day. This idea could rekindle interest in Friday practice sessions.