Sprint Races are here!
Formula One will replace the traditional qualifying format with a shortened sprint race at Silverstone, Monza and a third event this season.
July’s British GP will be the first test of this new Sprint format, which is the most significant change to the race weekend format in the modern era.
The rule changed was passed Monday following unanimous agreement of the 10 teams.
F1 CEO welcomes Sprint Races
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali welcomed the move, which he felt would deliver an added entertainment factor for fans.
“We are excited by this new opportunity that will bring our fans an even more engaging race weekend in 2021. Seeing the drivers battling it out over three days will be an amazing experience,” he said.
“I am sure the drivers will relish the fight. I am delighted that all the teams supported this plan, and it is a testament to our united efforts to continue to engage our fans in new ways while ensuring we remain committed to the heritage and meritocracy of our sport.”
How the sprint race format will work
The idea is to run a Saturday 100km sprint qualifying race at three grands prix this year. The result of this race will decide the grid for Sunday’s main event, as well as offering a small number of points (3-2-1) for the top three finishers.
The weekend timetable will be as follows.
Friday:
AM: One hour FP1 session with two sets of tyres for teams to choose freely.
PM: Normal qualifying format in the afternoon with five soft tyre sets available.
Saturday:
AM: One hour FP2 session with one set of tyres for teams to choose freely.
PM: A 100km sprint qualifying race in the afternoon with two sets of tyres for teams to choose freely.
Sunday:
PM: Full distance Grand Prix with two remaining sets of tyres
F1 teams have been mulling over the change for a while. The championship hopes it will “increase the on-track action and engage fans in a new and innovative way”.
After the trial run at Silverstone, the qualifying sprint race will take place again at Monza’s Italian Grand Prix on September 12.
The third event will be at an event outside Europe, although F1 has yet to decide on the venue.