F1 boss Domenicali: "This format has many advantages"

Formula 1 is trying out sprint races during three Grand Prix this season to see if this is an idea for the future. Formula 1 boss Stefano Domenicali is looking forward to the races with great enthusiasm.

The sprint races in Canada, Italy and Brazil will see drivers compete at a shorter distance than Sunday's race. The sprint races should provide extra excitement for fans in the stands and viewers at home during the Grand Prix weekends, although not everyone is positive about the idea.

Domenicali expects a lot from the plan, he tells Auto, Motor und Sport. "When we came out with the announcement that we wanted to try out a sprint qualifier, the organizers who qualified for the test immediately had a lot more demand for tickets. And the TV stations were enthusiastic."

"This format has many advantages," he continues. "The less time for free practice, the more action on the track. Nobody waits for better conditions in the garage anymore. This has already been demonstrated in Bahrain. With free practice and qualifying the organiser can give the fans a better Friday. With the second free practice in preparation for the race and sprint qualifying in the afternoon a better Saturday."