Formula One introduces double points for final race of season
Formula One will award double points for the last race of the season from the 2014 season, making it more likely that the title fight goes down to the wire. Drivers will also be given permanent numbers as part of a series of rule changes announced on Monday.
This year's F1 finale in Brazil was an anti-climax as Sebastian Vettel had already locked up the driver's title with three races to go. In 2014 a win at the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will be worth 50 points instead of 25, making it less likely that the title will already be decided.
Drivers will also be allowed to choose a number to put on their cars for their entire career, unlike the current system where the previous year's team placings determine the numbers. The reigning champion will still be given No1. The sport's governing body, FIA, said drivers will be able to pick any number between 2 and 99. If several drivers want the same number, it goes to the one who had the highest finish the previous season. The defending champion can choose whether to use No1 or his permanent number.
Other changes approved unanimously at a meeting of the F1 Strategy Group and Formula One Commission in Paris included a cost cap for teams that will be introduced from 2015, and five-second penalties for minor infringements during races.