Go into GPxPatch, GPxSet tab, session settings, and it shows all the options for consecutive computer cars and the total laps they run in each session.
iirc there was a 2003 or 2004 standalone mod by gp4italia that had a qualifying system where you had to 'wait for your turn' qualifying system. The drawback was that you had to know prior to qualifying where your driver qualified in the real race of that year. if you missed your slot then you couldn't qualify. Maybe it was all just a dream but I am sure it was real