The survey has also reaffirmed the view that Formula One is an important showcase for technology (91%) but that more emphasis must be put on driver skill and less on driver aids (88%). Improving overtaking remains the most important element of racing to be improved for the fans (86%).

FIA President Max Mosley said: “Our annual survey has again proved to be incredibly popular with Formula One fans across the world and their response to the improved format of the sport in 2006 has been very positive. We recognise their view that technology is important but that the right balance with driver skill must be achieved and that improving car design to encourage overtaking must be one of our priorities.

“We are now working very closely with the teams and manufactures to ensure that we encourage the introduction of new energy efficient technology which will not only help to improve the show but will also have a direct environmental relevance for the motoring public. With the assistance of our technology partner AMD we are creating a new group of experts from all of the Formula One teams to optimise aerodynamic improvements and other changes to facilitate overtaking.”

Henri Richard, AMD Executive Vice President and Chief Sales and Marketing Officer said: “AMD is proud to work with the FIA again this year on the second instalment of the FIA/AMD F1 Fan Survey. As the Official Technology Partner to the FIA, it’s important that we collectively understand how the fans view the sport of F1 and what they value.”

“For the second year in a row, more than 90,000 fans from around the world participated in the survey, demonstrating the amazing passion and excitement surrounding the sport. AMD and the FIA will now set our sights on turning this feedback into reality, and ensuring that the sport of Formula One continues to showcase the most advanced technology in the sporting world.”

Independent research specialists TNS Sport analysed more than 91,000 completed surveys from fans in 180 countries worldwide. The vast majority (87%) have been following the sport for six years or more. Almost all describe themselves as either very interested or extremely interested in Formula One and more than half of respondents were participating in the survey for the first time.

Fans overwhelmingly backed the new qualifying system and confirmed that qualifying had improved from last season. They also welcomed the return of tyre changes during pit stops which they felt made racing more exciting.

Most fans like the technological aspect of F1 but want to see the right balance with driver skill, 88% want more emphasis on driver skill and less on driver aids.

Fans would like to see more information brought into the race coverage itself. Most fans want to see more car telemetry, more on-board camera shots and more pit to car radio. They also called for split screen coverage of the race. During pre-race and post-race coverage fans want to see more in depth features and interviews in F1.

Michael Schumacher was voted the most popular driver with F1 fans, whilst Ferrari was the most popular team.

Click here to download the full results of the survey.