Theorem | Sprint race in Imola was the best we have seen so far

The discussions surrounding sprint racing in Formula 1 remain in full swing. Some find it a valuable addition, others call it an unnecessary risk. Nevertheless, most viewers will agree that the first sprint race of 2022 provided a nice spectacle.

After a dramatic start in which Max Verstappen not only lost the lead to Charles Leclerc, but also almost lost second place to Lando Norris, the Red Bull Racing driver managed to connect with his rival.

For a long time Verstappen just couldn't get within DRS distance of Leclerc, but in the final stages of the race this changed. In the last few laps of the race the Dutchman came closer at great speed, to pass the Ferrari driver in the penultimate.

The spectacle not only took place between Verstappen and Leclerc, but was also visibly present in the rest of the field. Apart from the fact that the points are now within reach for more drivers, thanks to the new Formula 1 rules they also have the means to fight it out for those points.

The close racing made possible by the new rules made for a spectacular sprint race, where for the first time there was an exciting battle for the lead. But does that also make it the best sprint race we have seen so far?