F1 considers doubling sprint races, explores Friday format changes
Formula 1 is considering doubling the number of sprint races to 12 per year from 2027 and revamping Friday formats to add more competition, while also managing a fluid future calendar that may see the Turkish Grand Prix return as new long-term venues are delayed.
Formula 1 is actively exploring a major expansion of its sprint race format, potentially doubling the number from six to 12 per season starting in 2027, alongside other changes to make regular race weekends more competitive. The sport is also navigating a dynamic calendar landscape, with a potential return for the Turkish Grand Prix and other European circuits filling gaps as new long-term projects in key markets are not expected until 2029.
Why it matters:
The push for more sprint races represents a fundamental tension in modern F1: balancing the commercial desire for more on-track action to engage fans and broadcasters against the increased physical and logistical strain on teams and drivers. Simultaneously, the evolving calendar strategy highlights F1's careful effort to maintain a global footprint while addressing criticisms over an over-reliance on street circuits.
The Details:
- Sprint Race Expansion: Commercial rights holder Liberty Media is keen to increase sprint events to 12 annually, driven by positive feedback on fan engagement and broadcaster interest.
- Friday Format Revamp: Even on non-sprint weekends, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali wants to add a competitive sporting element to Friday, moving beyond just free practice sessions. Ideas include a qualifying session or another format to deliver "real action."
- Rookie Accommodation: The sport recognizes that compressed sprint weekends limit track time for inexperienced drivers. Proposed solutions include allowing rookies additional practice sessions to compensate.
- Calendar Stability & Rotation: F1 is committed to a 24-race cap. With major new events in regions like Southeast Asia or Africa unlikely before 2029, opportunities arise for European circuits.
- This has led to rotation deals, like the one confirmed between Barcelona and Spa-Francorchamps, and the recent announcement of the Portuguese Grand Prix's return.
- Turkish GP Status: While not 100% confirmed, Domenicali strongly hinted at a deal for Istanbul Park's return, noting it would add another permanent circuit to a calendar recently focused on street tracks.
What's next:
F1 plans to present concrete proposals for format changes shortly. The calendar will continue to evolve within its 24-race limit, with a mix of historic European circuits and new destination races shaping the future. The potential doubling of sprint races from 2027 would mark the most significant format shift since their introduction, fundamentally altering the rhythm of the F1 season.