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New F1 points system, other changes agreed

The new Formula One points system and other changes for 2010 have been rubberstamped after the International Automobile Federation (FIA) published the definitive regulations.

The new scoring system of 25-18-15-12-10-8-6-4-2-1 for the first 10 drivers in a race had been agreed but needed the approval of the world motor sport council, which has now included the change in the rules published late on Thursday.

Another difference to last year is that starting weights of cars no longer have to be published after that line was taken out of the rules.

With refuelling during races banned this year, starting weights would have given an indication as to which cars were the most fuel efficient.

Tyre changes will be more important this season given the refuelling ban but the FIA wants limits on pitlane technology.

“Powered devices which assist in lifting any part of a car are forbidden in the pit lane during a race,” a new rule says.

In-season testing is generally banned but a new regulation has been brought in after controversy over Michael Schumacher testing last year while retired.

“If a team declares that one of its current race drivers is to be substituted by a driver who has not participated in an F1 race in the two previous calendar years, one day of track testing will be permitted between the start of the week preceding the second event and the last event of the Championship,” the rule states.

However, the test must take place on a non-F1 track.

The first race of the season is in Bahrain on March 14.