A lot has suddenly changed in the time between two Grands Prix. At the end of March, Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of Formula 1, said that he wants to end the amount of free practice in the sport. An interim solution has now been found.
All parties involved have officially agreed to a new format for sprint races. The teams and Liberty Media previously agreed to test a new format, but it has now been officially decided to adjust the format for the entire season. The FIA has announced this on its own website.
The new format replaces the second free practice session on Saturday with a special qualification for the sprint race. Also, the sprint race will no longer determine the grid for Sunday’s race. The event is therefore almost completely disconnected from the real Grand Prix and will only provide an opportunity for extra points.
Verstappen not a fan of sprint races
Many drivers were not fond of the old format of sprint races. With the short race setting the starting grid for Sunday, most drivers were more concerned with keeping their cars in one piece than fighting for position.
The new format therefore seems to be an improvement on the old one, but Max Verstappen is still not a fan. Earlier, the reigning world champion already announced that the ‘weekends will become even busier and more intense in this way’. Combined with the increasing number of races per season, it will be a busy year for drivers and staff.
