In the 51st running of the Macao Grand Prix to be held between Nov. 18-21, a range of major improvements to the race will adapt the event closer to rules of classic Formula 1 races.

The Macao Grand Prix Committee announced here Thursday that a 10-lap qualification race to determine the grid positions for the finale of the Macao Formula 3 Grand Prix will be held on Nov. 20 (Saturday). Any driver retiring from the Qualification Race will be permitted to start the Grand Prix's final race from the back of the grid, ensuring a full compliment of cars for the start of the final 15-lap showdown on Nov. 21.

Also new to the regulations this year is a rule similar to that used in Formula 1 whereby any team changing an engine during the weekend is penalized by 10 positions.

The FIA Intercontinental Cup of Formula 3 has long been recognized as the testing ground for future Formula 1 stars.

Fourteen drivers in this year's Formula 1 World Championship have competed in the Macao Formula 3 Grand Prix, with six of them winning a place on the podium.

Joao Mannuel Costa Antunes, coordinator of the Macao Grand Prix Committee said that the changes in this year's FIA Intercontinental Cup of Formula 3 will add tremendously to the excitement of the event.

Previously the Macao Formula 3 Grand Prix was run over two legs, and the winner must complete the maximum number of laps in both legs in order to win. The format meant that any driver who failed in the qualification race would not be eligible to take an overall victory, even if he crossed the finishing line first in the leg two.

"Drivers will go all-out without the fear of retirement in the qualification race precluding them from taking victory in the final race. It also means that we will have a full grid for the final race, during which all the teams are able to repair any damage done in the qualification race," said Autunes.

The new regulations also simplify the event for racing fans. Now, whichever driver crosses the finish line first in the final will be the winner in the Macao Grand Prix.

The Macao Grand Prix Committee is also modifying the Guia Race regulations and format to bring them closer to FIA World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) rules. This year, the Guia Race will be run over two legs of eight laps each, with a 15-minute break between legs.