Barrichello Welcomes 'Superman' Qualifying

Ferrari's Rubens Barrichello has welcomed the changes to be brought into Formula One this year including the introduction of one-lap qualifying.

"They were talking about so many things but I am quite happy with the changes," he told a news conference today.

"The single qualifying lap means there will be a race where a top contender will probably be sixth on the grid and if he is sixth in Hungary then it is going to be difficult for him," said Barrichello, referring to the Hungaroring track where it is difficult to overtake.

"I think qualifying is one of my strongest points...that is why I like the new rules - it will be a 'Superman' lap and it is going to be push all the time."

Asked whether the new one-lap system would reward good fortune rather than quality, Barrichello said he was sure that the system would result in more diverse grids.

"The qualifying lap will be a mix of everything - there will be an element of luck in terms of how the machine goes but at the end the best will emerge," said Barrichello.

Last season's runner-up in the World Championship, Barrichello said the new points system should keep the battle alive until the end of the season - in contrast to 2002 when Ferrari wrapped up the title well before the final race.

"If you win five races and you have 50 points and the guy who has finished second in all those races is just 10 points behind it can make a big difference. The Championship won't end so soon which perhaps makes it more interesting," said Barrichello.