Krack on new sprint format: 'The sport does need to retain its DNA'

Aston Martin team boss Mike Krack has given his views on the new format for sprint racing. Quoted by Speedweek, Krack expressed his support for the new plan, although he also makes it clear he has some concerns.

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix will for the first time use a new format around the sprint race. Instead of the sprint race determining the starting grid for the Grand Prix, as was the case in previous years, the sprint race will now be completely separate from the Grand Prix. For both races, the starting grid will be determined by a 'traditional' qualifying session.

Around the time of the Australian Grand Prix, Formula 1 put this new format to a vote among team bosses. At least eight out of 10 teams had to agree to the format. That requirement was met, meaning the issue now only needs to be approved by the F1 Commission on 25 April. However, this is seen only as a formality.

Krack agree, but with concerns

Which team bosses did or did not agree is not known, but it is clear from his reaction that Krack voted in favour of the change. "In a general sense, Formula 1 must continue to evolve," the Aston Martin team boss explained. However, he did express some concerns about the changes, echoing a criticism made by Max Verstappen: "The sport does need to retain its DNA. "

"There have been some constructive discussions on how to achieve that, because you also have to consider the interests of all parties involved and take into account that you cannot change the schedule, tyre availability, engine mileage and so on. You have to find a reasonable compromise. Then maybe at some point you have to put the interests of an individual team on the back burner and keep an eye on the big picture," Krack said.