Domenicali signals a new sprint era

F1 chief Stefano Domenicali discusses adding more sprint events and a possible reverse grid in an exclusive interview with The Race.

Domenicali eyes reverse grids in F1 sprint expansion

Formula 1 chief Stefano Domenicali announced in an interview with The Race that the sport could extend sprint weekends and even test a reverse grid in future formats. For now, F1 plans to keep six sprint events in 2026 and will discuss any changes with teams, drivers and the FIA, signaling a move toward experimentation rather than a retreat from sprints.

Fan feedback is mixed but leaning toward bold ideas. A YouTube poll by The Race showed 44% against sprints, while supporters favored changes like a reverse grid. Domenicali emphasized listening to fans and being willing to try new formats, while cautioning that a complete return to a traditional weekend is unlikely as promoters push for sprints.

These discussions reflect a broader trend in sports to balance tradition with content-driven formats. Keeping sprints while testing new ideas could deepen fan engagement if done transparently.

But it also risks confusing casual viewers if changes arrive too quickly or without clear rules. The commercial logic is clear: more races and varied formats can attract sponsors and broadcasters, yet costs and complexity grow, making governance through the FIA and teams crucial.

Highlights

The next moves will reveal how far F1 will push change