Formula One Unveils Innovative Race Schedule Transformation with F1 Sprint Races

Formula One (F1) Unveils New Weekend Schedule with F1 Sprint Races: Enhanced Balance and Safety Measures Introduced

The change aims to address concerns about the gap between Friday’s qualifying and Sunday’s main race, shifting F1 sprint races to Friday, followed by the sprint race on Saturday and main qualifying later the same day. (Photo: theduochronicles)

F1 Sprint Races Set to Transform Weekend Dynamics: Proposed Adjustments Aim to Enhance Schedule Balance and Racing Excitement

According to source, starting next season, Formula One (F1) will introduce F1 sprint races before the main qualifying session, following the approval of a proposal to adjust the weekend schedule. The decision was made after discussions with the F1 commission during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which includes the FIA, teams, and F1’s commercial rights holder.

The new format aims to address concerns about the gap between Friday’s qualifying and Sunday’s main race, with the F1 sprint races now scheduled for Friday, followed by the sprint race on Saturday and main qualifying later the same day. Previously, weekends featuring F1 sprint races had main Grand Prix qualifying on Friday, leading to dissatisfaction among some teams. The proposed change aims to provide a more balanced schedule.

However, the alterations still need approval from the FIA’s World Motor Sport Council in the coming year. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner expressed the need for the F1 sprint format to evolve, acknowledging that while the concept is understood, it has sometimes been underwhelming.

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F1 Commission Prioritizes Driver Safety: Approval for Extra Cooling Ducts Alongside F1 Sprint Races to Tackle Challenges in Extreme Heat

In addition to the F1 sprint races adjustments, the F1 commission approved the inclusion of an extra cooling duct for cars. This decision comes in response to challenges faced by drivers during the intense heat of the Qatar Grand Prix in October.

American driver Logan Sargeant retired due to severe dehydration, and Alpine’s Esteban Ocon experienced difficulties, including vomiting into his helmet, as track temperatures reached 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit). The introduction of additional F1 sprint races and cooling measures aims to enhance driver safety and performance under extreme conditions.

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