An increase in the number of sprint qualifying events and revised testing rules were agreed by the Formula 1 Commission today, as the FIA issued a statement confirming three major topics were discussed at the meeting: the calendar for next championship, the revised rules in response to the washed-out Belgian Grand Prix and the future of the sprint qualifying format.
The FIA’s statement explained the commission was presented with a report on the first two sprint qualifying events, which were held at Silverstone and Monza. Compiling feedback from “a large number of stakeholders” the statement described the reports contents as “positive about the sprint concept.”
“Elements relating to potential future sprint events and the associated regulatory framework” will be discussed after the Brazilian Grand Prix, the statement added,
However RaceFans reports that the commission also agreed plans to hold six sprint qualifying events in the next season: this idea and other agreed points will go before the World Motor Sport Council on Friday for approval.
Further changes approved by the commission include condensing F1’s four-day event schedule – including the Thursday ‘media day’ – to three.
Alterations to the testing rules in order to facilitate next year’s schedule were also approved. The minimum time between the end of testing and first race has been adjusted to permit a reduced gap of eight days, and tests of up to five consecutive days have been agreed.
A draft calendar of 23 races was presented to the commission, which was advised of the uncertain state of the Chinese Grand Prix. The Imola circuit in Italy is expected to take its place, though the Chinese round will be held as a reserve event should another grand prix fall from the schedule next year.
Teams’ representatives were also briefed and updated on 2025 power unit regulations during the commission meeting.
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