Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has revealed that F1 is aiming on holding sprint races in a third of the 23 races on the 2022 Formula 1 calendar.
The sprint qualifying format is currently under trial after being used in Silverstone and Monza. It will be also be used in Brazil as the F1 management engage in talks with FIA and the teams on the plans to use the format onwards.
Sprint qualifying has brought about mixed reactions with Formula 1 managing director Ross Brawn the media and some team bosses showing delight in the format. However, the drivers and the fans somehow seem unconvinced mainly because of the controversies evolving around the Silverstone and Monza races. The only advantage the sprint qualifying hold is that the drivers have the freedom to choose the tyre compounds to start with in the grand prix.
According to Domenicali, rubber stamping the Sprint format is a mere formality with organisers planning to host the events at a third of next year’s Grands Prix.
“We said at the beginning of the year there would be three tests this year to make sure we have the right plan for the future,” he said. “The vast majority of the comments we received were super positive.
“Promoters are super happy because there is something new and important on Friday and Saturday and Sunday,” he added.
“We are receiving this positive feedback therefore we need to know next year we have a great plan where we will consider also the points highlighted by people who did not like this format. Generally speaking it has been an incredible success.
“I can say we will not go everywhere with the Sprint format,” he continued. “It is something we want to keep for one third of the races more or less and to connect with a certain different way of giving rewards and points and to connect with specific circuits that as you know would make the difference.
“So there is a lot of food for thought. We will involve all the stakeholders: broadcasters, drivers, teams, promoters and fans. We won’t forget our role is to take the right decision and to consider all the points and points of view of everyone.”
Talking about the planned 23-date 2022 Formula 1 schedule, which will see two American events, Domenicali said, “I can anticipate that, for sure, the calendar will be done with 23 races.
“Of course we will be very respectful towards the COVID regulations issued around the world from the different governments. But that is our aim that F1 can give this sign of hope and to go to normal things to enjoy.
“The idea is to make sure there is the right rhythm to the calendar,” he continued. “There are, of course, considerations related to periods to make sure logistically the flow has to be right.
“One thing I can tell you, without discovering too many things is that next year the season will start in the middle of March and will finish in the middle of November.”
