F1 to add six sprint races to 2024 Calendar

Formula 1 has revealed the six Grand Prix events scheduled to host Sprint races in the 2024 season. The selected races are in China, Miami, Austria, Austin, Sao Paulo, and Qatar. While the decision to move qualifying for the sprint to Friday and conduct the shorter race on Saturday before the Grand Prix has been effectively agreed, more significant changes, including reversing the sprint grid, are being considered. 

These potential modifications will be discussed at a meeting of the F1 Commission in January, comprising F1, the FIA, and all 10 teams. The sprint format, introduced in 2021, aims to enhance TV audiences, on-track entertainment, and fan engagement.

The sprint format, known for races covering about one-third of the distance of a Grand Prix, was introduced to enhance the overall Formula 1 experience for fans and participants.

Stefano Domenicali, president of Formula 1, highlighted how much the Sprint format has contributed in boosting audience engagement and expressed his anticipation for the upcoming events in the next year. 

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem was also pleased with the Sprint format and spoke on the need for continuous development and adaptation to ensure the best for the sport. 

Discussions are ongoing regarding two potential format changes for sprints. One option involves a reversal of part of the grid, likely the top 10 positions, while the other considers lifting the current rule preventing teams from changing their cars after the single practice session held before the first sprint qualifying.

The 2024 sprint races will kick off at the Chinese Grand Prix in April, followed by Miami in May. Austria, Austin, Sao Paulo, and Qatar will also host sprint events during the season. Further developments in the sprint format are expected to be determined following discussions in January, contributing to the ongoing evolution of Formula 1.

Leon Osamor