Spiral

That's the decision point. And honestly I think scrapping the current system might need to be considered.

Absolutely needs to be considered, yes. Not necessarily done, but definitely considered.

Little early to says that before Grandmasters even starts?

Plenty of ‘more casual’ (competitive mindset but 2 free days a week, cannot travel more than once or twice a year) can play in a couple 15 hour tournaments a month. Not necessarily willing, but able. That’s your Saturday, for example.

Speak for yourself. I was a nay-sayer about specialist when it was announced. But I've had a lot of fun competing in qualifiers, except for the excessive length, which can be addressed. Irks me when people say "no one" and "everyone" think a certain way.