Leclerc opposes F1 CEO: 'Not a part of F1 DNA'

While the Ferrari driver would welcome a revival of V8s, he insists the sport’s format doesn’t need reinventing.

Sprint races have been part of F1 since 2021, designed to add more spectacle and create value for fans both at the circuit and watching on TV.

The calendar currently features six sprints, with new additions in Zandvoort and Singapore for 2026, and discussions are already underway about increasing that number beyond 2027.

But for Leclerc, the balance is already right. “My personal opinion is that I think the amount of sprint races we have at the moment is good enough and I wouldn't want to go more than that,” he said at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

The Monegasque was also cautious on the idea of reverse grids, a concept F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has suggested as a way to shake up racing.

Where Leclerc would like change, however, is under the engine cover. Growing up in the V10 and V8 eras, he admitted he misses the sound that once defined the sport.

Want to stay up-to-date with what happens in the F1 paddock? Then GPblog's F1 Paddock Update video is the perfect way to do it. Subscribe to GPblog's YouTube channel and turn on notifications to never miss the latest episodes.