Off the back of the major success the sprint race format has enjoyed, F1 is looking at growing the number of the race weekends to be run under it. The F1 field soars through the Losail International Circuit
Formula One introduced the sprint race format for the 2021 season, welcoming moments of fast paced and enthralling racing action, which immediatly took a hold over F1 fans.
Starting from three short 100km races, a third of a Grand Prix race distance, the number grew to six races by 2023.
Now, GPblog understands, that number could double yet again, in light of the higher audience numbers and intensified fan engagement due to the format, as such, more competitive throughout a race wekeend will only help increase that.
F1 looks at increasing the number of Sprint races in 2027
Why not for 2026? With the drastic regulation changes that will have a major effect on the power units, chassis, fuel and the introduction of active aerodynamics, next year will be a season of acclimatisation for teams and drivers.
As such, this website has learned that the reason behind the sprint races remaining set at only six for the coming season stems from the understanding the size of the tasks teams will face next year due to the regulations overhaul.
However, conversations are ongoing with the
FIA, teams and drivers, regarding not only the number of sprint races to be held as of 2027, but also the format of the sprint races themselves, i.e., the introduction of reverse grids, for instance.
Furthermore, it is to GPblog's understanding that twelve race weekends maximum will take on the sprint race format. The venues where the short races are to be held for the 2027 season have not been selected as of yet.
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