 Qualifying consisted of four sessions, rather than two in 2008.The minimum weights of the cars were also altered, with 2009 cars topping the scales at 1050 kg, 2008 cars at 1030 kg and 2007 machinery at 1010 kg.To avoid a clash of coverage times with the 2009 Bahrain Grand Prix, the season opener traditionally held at Hockenheim took place on 17 May, three weeks later than originally planned.