Domenicali hints at bigger sprint race role – and reversed grids

Stefano Domenicali has suggested Formula 1 is ready to further expand the sprint race concept, and may even trial reverse-grid formats.

Speaking to Italian outlets ahead of Monza, the F1 chief executive said momentum is building across the sport for more short Saturday races and the sprint qualifying formats to replace some tired practice sessions.

"We need to discuss the formats for the next few years," he said. "Everyone wants more sprint races instead of Friday free practice, from the promoters to the fans.

"The drivers are convinced they need them, 18 are in favour and maybe two are against. Even Max (Verstappen) is becoming convinced, and things are moving in that direction."

For now, Domenicali said sprints will not be on every stop of the 24-race tour. "Having them every weekend, like MotoGP does, is too big a step, but that doesn't mean we can't get there, or at least approach the weekends differently.

"It's a maturation process that must be undertaken with respect. It's an approach that evolves the sport's content. Fans are tired of free practice, our polls show, and they want to see action. The idea of a reversed grid is also on the table."

Just days earlier, he acknowledged in De Telegraaf that early criticism of sprints was fierce. "How dare we touch the very DNA of F1?" he recalls of the backlash.

"But if Formula 1, or any other sport for that matter, doesn't dare to adapt its philosophy, it loses the attention of the general public.

"We must continue to evolve as a sport, without alienating the fans, of course. But not listening to the new generation is not a good thing either."

Sceptics may laugh at the notion Verstappen is softening, given his long-standing disdain for sprints, but Domenicali remains convinced.

"Max? If you talk to him in confidence, he'll start to recognise that the format makes sense. After all, drivers are born to race. In a few years, all the GPs will ask for a weekend with the sprint race on Saturday."