Formula 1 has introduced a new sprint format to its race weekends, but opinions among drivers and teams are mixed regarding its impact on excitement and strategy. Max Verstappen, despite his previous success in sprint races, isn’t overly enthusiastic about the addition of an extra event.
The revamped schedule sees a sprint race on Saturday following a shootout on Friday, with the main qualifying session also taking place on Saturday. A significant change is the introduction of two parc ferme periods, allowing teams to make adjustments between the sprint race and qualifying.
Verstappen acknowledges the logical aspect of the new format but doubts its ability to enhance the excitement of the race itself.
“It’s a better format, I would say, in terms of how you approach the weekend,” said Verstappen. “But I don’t get more excited about the race itself.
Verstappen appreciates the opportunity for teams to tweak their cars throughout the weekend, adding a layer of strategy to the proceedings.
“But at least I think it’s better that you’re still able to change the car for the weekend. And a bit more of a logic to it in terms of how you have the sessions now in the race weekends.”
Carlos Sainz Shares Verstappen’s Sentiment
Carlos Sainz of Ferrari shares Verstappen’s sentiment regarding the parc ferme regulations, praising the newfound flexibility.
However, he expresses a desire for more substantial changes to the sprint format to further improve the racing experience.
“Regarding parc ferme rules, I’m a big fan of this change,” said the Spaniard. “I suffered last year in Baku and in a couple of races a tough sprint weekend where the car went into parc ferme straight away after FP1, and I couldn’t change something in the car.
“That meant that I was on the back foot for the rest of the weekend, with still five sessions to do in the weekend, which for me made zero sense.
“I think a driver and a team should always be allowed to try and change things in the car if the car is not performing as it should or as expected. So I’m a big fan of that change.
“Regarding the [overall]sprint format, I would have rather changed a little bit more than what it was changed. But anyway I think the changes are in the right direction. They’re small but in the right direction. Potentially, if you ask me personally, I would have changed a bit more.”
Additional Workload on Teams
Jody Egginton, Red Bull Racing’s technical director, welcomes the freedom to adjust cars but acknowledges the additional workload it places on teams. While he appreciates the opportunity to optimize performance, he also emphasizes the need for balance and efficiency in managing resources.
Overall, opinions on the new sprint format vary, with some seeing it as a step in the right direction for strategy and flexibility, while others remain skeptical about its potential to enhance the on-track action.
As Formula 1 continues to evolve, finding the right balance between tradition and innovation remains a challenge for drivers, teams, and organizers alike.