Yes, but is the way of modern sport, and especially motorsport. Nascar have the Chase, BSB have a similar 'play off' type final rounds. I remember back in 2009 the Trackrod ran a double points final round decider between Cronin and Mark Higgins; even though it wasn't double the distance of the other rounds. Cronin won the event, but both drivers had the same results/ wins. Cronin won the BRC because of the 'double points' final round.
Saying that, back in 1997?? the Pirelli was split into 2 rounds.