Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has suggested that in the future the number of sprint races could increase, and he also raised the possibility of a format change with the introduction of a reverse grid. This solution, already used in Formula 2 and Formula 3, involves inverting the top 10 drivers from qualifying for the sprint race.
Several drivers have already voiced their opinions on this possible change, and the general stance is quite clear: increasing the number of sprint races is an idea that many welcome, while the reverse grid has been firmly rejected.
Charles Leclerc stays faithful to the current format
However, Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc has now shared his thoughts, stating: “My personal opinion is that the number of sprint races we have at the moment is enough and I would not want to have more. The reverse grid… I don’t know, not in a normal weekend at least. In a sprint weekend it could maybe be considered, but I don’t see it as something that could be part of Formula 1’s DNA.”
He added: “I think Formula 1 should remain as it is right now and we don’t need to reinvent anything.”
Sprint races are essentially shorter Grands Prix. In Formula 2 and Formula 3, this format — with the reverse grid — works, but the level of competition is very different compared to Formula 1. Adding more sprint races would certainly make the championship picture more interesting, as points are awarded to the top eight finishers.
For example, in the next seven race weekends, there will be three sprint events. This makes the battle between Oscar Piastri, Lando Norris and Max Verstappen even more engaging and, if anything, more intense. Simply put, Verstappen will have extra opportunities to go for victory.
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