F1 Set to Bow to Television on Qualifying

Formula One team bosses say they will dance to television's tune as they try to defuse a row over the new qualifying format.

"We will follow television because that is how we get our money," Frank Williams told a news conference at the Malaysian Grand Prix on Friday. "Whatever works for that, we will try to do that."

McLaren's Ron Dennis added: "The teams were supportive of the changes that were made over the winter but if it is better to change for television, then I am sure all the teams would support the change.

"Perhaps there is some argument that says let's wait two or three races until we know exactly what the reaction is but there appeared to be quite significant reaction coming after Australia so maybe it is a case of better sooner rather than later."

Formula One changed qualifying this season to one extended session on Saturday afternoon after introducing two one hour sessions on Friday and Saturday last year.

The new format was widely criticised as boring by broadcasters after the season-opening Australian race, with drivers having no incentive to push hard in the first part and the entire session lasting longer than the race itself.

The governing International Automobile Federation (FIA) said this week that the format could be changed before the next race in Bahrain on April 4, with the two parts clearly divided and broadcasters likely to show only the second half.

"It seems that to have one hour and 40 minutes was too long," said Ferrari boss Jean Todt. "We may have to split that into two parts. I don't think we are preparing any kind of revolution."