Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has proposed significant changes to the racing calendar, notably increasing the number of sprint race weekends and introducing a rotating calendar for Grand Prix events, particularly in Europe. These plans signal a shift intended to amplify viewer engagement and accommodate the growing international demand for hosting races.
Since Sprint Races were introduced in 2021, there has been a mixed response from drivers and fans. Three-time champion Max Verstappen, often an outspoken critic of sprint races, has exhibited a slight change in attitude following a recent adjustment to the sprint format. The revised format is as follows – Friday hosts the one and only practice session followed by Sprint Qualifying, which determines the grid for the Sprint Race which takes place on Saturday morning. Following the Sprint Race is Qualifying for the Grand Prix which takes place as normal on Sunday. Despite winning nine out of 14 sprint races, Verstappen continues to favor the traditional race weekend format, mirroring sentiments from fellow drivers like Lando Norris and George Russell.
Nevertheless, Domenicali remains confident on the sprint race format, buoyed by positive audience metrics. He explained during an interview with Auto Motor und Sport (translated by Google):
“That is the goal. The figures show that there is interest in this.”
This potential expansion of sprint races aligns with Domenicali’s wider vision for the sport, which includes a record-setting 24 races on this year’s calendar.
Addressing comparisons with other major sports, Domenicali advocates for a broader perspective on event frequency. He continued:
“Look at other sports. Football and basketball are played every other day. They entertain their fans much more intensely. In terms of quantity, we have much less to offer. Yet, compared to other sports, we are doing very well and continue to grow. Everyone involved in our sport, in any way, should be happy with the situation.”
As the demand to host Grand Prix races increases globally, Domenicali revealed considerations to implement a rotation system to manage the high interest from numerous locations. This system would rotate which countries host races, with a particular focus on European venues initially.
“We want to keep a good balance between old and new races, although there are many more countries that want a Grand Prix. We are thinking about a rotation system. Probably we will start with this in Europe,” Domenicali added.
Such strategies reflect Formula 1’s ongoing efforts to diversify its global presence and cater to a burgeoning fanbase, while still honoring the rich heritage of traditional European circuits.
Uncommon Knowledge
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