Formula 1 is reshaping weekend formats to appeal to younger audiences and their shorter attention spans. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali confirmed that adding more sprint events, shortening grands prix, and introducing new formats are on the table. According to Domenicali, a majority of drivers and promoters now back the idea.
“There’s a topic on the table concerning the format we’ll use in the coming years, starting with sprint weekends,” Domenicali told select media including Motorsport.com.
Sprint Weekend Expansion
Sprint races, introduced in 2021, have undergone multiple revisions. Initially unpopular, they are now gaining traction among teams and drivers. Domenicali claims the balance has shifted significantly:
“I have to say that aside from some older die-hard fans, everyone wants sprint weekends. Promoters drive this format forward, and drivers are backing it as well. Even Max [Verstappen], with whom I spoke one-on-one, is starting to say it makes sense.”
While traditionalists still prefer longer practice sessions, Domenicali insists younger fans want more action from Friday onward.
Free Practice Under Threat
Domenicali argued that practice sessions no longer serve the modern audience. “Promoters and fans want action. To put it bluntly, they’re tired of free practice. That’s an objective fact we can’t ignore.”
He also hinted at the use of advanced simulation and AI tools, making practice less vital for teams.
Shorter Grand Prix Distances
Another proposal is reducing race length. Domenicali pointed to audience data suggesting that highlights now attract more attention than full races. “Even current races may be a bit too long for younger audiences,” he said.
This move would break with tradition, as grands prix have been around two hours for decades. Shortening them could spark major debates among purists.
Reverse Grid Back in Debate
Perhaps the most controversial idea is the return of reverse-grid races. Domenicali said, “It’s on our agenda. We’ve discussed it before, but in the coming months we’ll need the courage to push the discussion again because I’ve heard several drivers propose it.”
Although long rejected in F1, reverse grids are common in F2 and F3. Their inclusion in F1 would represent one of the most radical changes in modern history.
The Road Ahead
Domenicali summed up the direction of Formula 1 bluntly. “The direction is clear: I can guarantee that in a few years there will be demand to have all weekends with the same format.”
With sprint races expanding, practice sessions shrinking, and reverse grids back in talks, Formula 1 faces a defining moment. The next steps could reshape the sport for a generation raised on fast, high-action content.
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