- Sprint events are held in China, Miami, Austria, Austin, Brazil and Qatar
- Red Bull’s Christian Horner has urged F1 bosses to change the format in the future
Formula 1 will again hold six sprint weekends in 2024, with discussions ongoing about possible adjustments to the format.
The sprint weekends are during the returning Chinese Grand Prix, followed by races in Miami, Austria, Austin, Brazil and Qatar.
A number of drivers and team leaders, including Red Bull boss Christian Horner, have called for changes to the sprint format.
It is likely that qualifying for the sprint will take place again on Friday, ahead of the sprint race on Saturday, which will be followed by qualifying for Sunday’s Grand Prix.
Other options could be considered to shake up the format, with changes to the rules on parc ferme conditions – with changes to the car banned – and even a move to reverse some of the starting order for the sprint .
There will be six sprint races on the calendar in 2024, with F1 bosses keen to maintain the format
Red Bull chief Christian Horner is among those who have called for changes to the sprint events
F1 bosses are keen to maintain the sprint and believe meaningful action on Friday, Saturday and Sunday during a Grand Prix weekend will benefit the TV audience and fans in attendance.
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, said: ‘I am delighted to announce six exciting venues for next season’s F1 sprint events, including two new hosts China and Miami, both of which will be fantastic additions and will provide great racing offer for all our teams. fans at the race and watching at home.
‘Since its inception in 2021, Sprint has been consistent in delivering bigger TV audiences, more on-track entertainment for fans at events and greater fan engagement on social and digital platforms, and we look forward to the exciting events next year. ‘
A decision will probably be made in January about what the sprint format will look like next season.
Horner said in November: ‘I think it’s clear that the sprint has to evolve a bit. I understand the concept and the action on all three days, which is interesting for the promoter and for the fans.
‘But I think the sprints have been a bit disappointing in some cases: there’s no pit stop, it’s mostly staying on the grid and it’s a bit like winning a medal for a long time.
“I think a bit more racing could be introduced, but then you have to look at the consequences of that, if you were to reverse the grid, if there were points involved and so on.”
