Reverse grid format in Formula One racing, criticized by drivers as a poor notion
Formula 1 is shaking up its traditional race weekend format with the introduction of F1 sprints, a concept that has sparked a heated debate among drivers.
The F1 sprint format, introduced in 2021, consists of one practice session, F1 sprint qualifying on Friday, a F1 sprint race on Saturday afternoon, qualifying on Saturday evening, and the traditional race on Sunday. This change aims to reduce the number of classic practice sessions and create more on-track position battles.
One of the most vocal advocates for the F1 sprint format is Gabriel Bortoleto, a former Formula 2 champion. Bortoleto believes that twelve F1 sprints could be the future of Formula 1, with many in the F1 paddock agreeing that a weekend with four competitive F1 sessions generates more fan interest. However, Bortoleto also expresses concerns for future rookies, especially on city circuits like Singapore and tricky F1 circuits like Zandvoort.
Sauber rookie and another supporter of the F1 sprint format sees the introduction as beneficial for entertainment and weekend variety. On the other hand, World Championship leader Oscar Piastri opposes the idea of reverse-grid races in Formula 1, even from a sporting perspective. Formula 2 and Formula 3 use reverse grids to showcase drivers' abilities, but Piastri does not believe this is appropriate for Formula 1.
Isack Hadjar, who completed his first F1 sprint at the China Grand Prix, has mixed feelings about the F1 sprint format. Hadjar prefers going directly into qualifying with little preparation, finding it more challenging, but he also finds the F1 sprint format more enjoyable than traditional race weekends.
Lance Stroll, Aston Martin driver, champions more F1 sprints and a return to the 2021 Parc fermé regulation in Formula 1. Stroll believes that the closed Parc fermé regulation added excitement to the starting grid, a point of contention in the early implementation of F1 sprints. The Parc fermé regulation was addressed by introducing two Parc fermés in 2024.
Nico Hülkenberg has mixed feelings about the idea of implementing reverse-grid races in Formula 1. Pierre Gasly jokes that he wouldn't mind if there was a reverse starting order this year. Esteban Ocon, however, expresses concern that more content and less anticipation might be lost with the addition of more F1 sprints and shorter races.
Stefano Domenicali, Formula 1's CEO, has expressed a desire to increase the number of Formula 1 sprints long-term, suggesting a significant rise beyond the current 3 F1 sprints in 2026. However, as of the 2026 calendar, there are 3 F1 sprint races planned; the exact number for 2027 depends on future decisions and is not yet officially confirmed. Thus, if Domenicali's wish materializes fully by 2027, the number of F1 sprints would be higher than the 3 scheduled in 2026.
Christian Danner, an F1 expert, has shared his thoughts on the topic of 'F1 sprint' in Formula 1 in a video. Danner's opinion, like many others, reflects the ongoing debate within the Formula 1 community about the future direction of the sport.
As the F1 sprint format continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how it will impact the sport and the racing experience for both drivers and fans. The debate among drivers and experts underscores the complexity of balancing sporting competition with entertainment and fan engagement in Formula 1.
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