Verstappen cynical in response to radical change in F1: "I'll take part and do my best"
19:35, 23 Sep
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Shanna is a Formula 1 journalist at GPblog, specializing in both F1 and endurance and GT racing. With a Master’s degree in Journalism and experience at international circuits, she provides in-depth, reliable coverage and insights based on her presence at Grands Prix and racing events worldwide.
Max Verstappen was not exactly thrilled about having 10 Sprint weekends on next year's F1 calendar. Although he understands the reasoning behind the format, he made it clear that winning a Sprint does not hold the same significance for him as winning on Sunday.
Formula 1 has scheduled ten Sprint weekends next season on a calendar featuring 24 Grands Prix. Monaco was one of the most unexpected locations, as it is a particularly difficult track on which to overtake. However, this gives the weekend in the principality not only an extra race, but also another qualifying session.
Verstappen: ‘That’s where my focus is’
In Azerbaijan, Verstappen was asked about both having more Sprints and the choice of Monaco. The Red Bull Racing driver didn't hide his personal preference, but he can understand why Formula 1 wants to organize more weekends using the sprint format.
"I mean, I'm personally, of course, not a fan of it, but I understand, of course, the reasoning behind it"
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"It also brings more action throughout the weekend. So, yeah, we'll participate. But, you know, for me, I always think about the Grand Prix, and that's where my main focus is. And about the sprint in Monaco, yeah, I mean, it's the same scenario as what happens in the main race. Like, you are excited for the start, and then you can't pass. That's, I think, quite straightforward."
Photo: RacePictures
Winning a sprint has less emotional value for Verstappen
Verstappen was not completely surprised that Monaco was chosen. "Yeah, but maybe Monaco wanted it also. I don't know.
The Dutchman then added: "For me, I honestly don't care what the sprint races are. Like I said, I participate, and, of course, you try to do the best you can. I have no emotion attached to winning a a sprint race or not winning it. My focus is always was, from when I was a kid, you look forward to the Grand Prix. That's normally on a Sunday or sometimes on a Saturday."
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Azerbaijan Grand Prix
Overview
Thursday 24.09.26
Practice 1
08:30 AM
Practice 2
12:00 PM
Friday 25.09.26
Practice 3
08:30 AM
Qualification
12:00 PM
Saturday 26.09.26
Race
11:00 AM
Thursday 24.09.26
Practice 1
Thu 08:30 AM
Practice 2
Thu 12:00 PM
Friday 25.09.26
Practice 3
Fri 08:30 AM
Qualification
Fri 12:00 PM
Saturday 26.09.26
Race
Sat 11:00 AM
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| Pos. | Driver | Team | Points |
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