In the last few years, Formula 1 has embraced innovation through the introduction of the format Sprint. An idea designed to bring more excitement and entertainment to Saturday thanks to an additional race. The format has undergone some changes over the years but is still not convincing. The main problem is linked to the extreme conditions to which the teams are forced. The single free practice session, lasting 60 minutes, is not at all sufficient to be able to test various configurations and get the most out of the drivers and cars. The spectacle in these conditions fails. After a lackluster performance at the United States Grand Prix, Red Bull team principal, Christian Horner, raised some important questions regarding the current format. Horner suggested some changes to the rules to keep spectators glued to Saturday's races.
A format which still has some problems
The United States Grand Prix saw Max Verstappen of Red Bull dominated the Sprint race, but despite his team's victory, Horner was left dissatisfied with the lackluster spectacle that was on offer. According to Horner, the main problem seems to be the lack of suspense and uncertainty in the Sprint format. “Perhaps an element of indecision is missing”, Horner said, suggesting the idea of reversing the top ten positions on the starting grid or increasing the points up for grabs to convince drivers to take more risks.
Verstappen, who shared the fans' concerns, doesn't like the format either. Max highlighted the fact that the Sprint took away much of the suspense and uncertainty of Sunday's race. Once the fans have seen Saturday's match, they already know what to expect on Sunday. As a result, tickets are also being sold less and less on the circuit. Bobby Epstein, head of Circuit of the Americas (COTA), revealed that there were no significant increases in ticket sales for Sprint Saturday. The empty seats in the grandstands during the Sprint race highlighted the fact that the current format did not capture the attention of the public as expected.
Christian Horner's idea
Horner argues that a more thoughtful approach is needed to perfect Formula 1's Sprint format. While the basic idea is good, it is essential to make significant changes to make the races more exciting and unpredictable for fans. "Maybe it could be an idea to reverse the top ten positions on the starting grid, or increase the points up for grabs, so as to convince the drivers to take a few more risks. We must be open to accept corrections to the format, but I find the basic concept to be good. Then, nothing prevents us from trying new things in order to make it more exciting for the spectator." – explained Christian Horner to media.
