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F1 Weighs More Sprints, Shorter Races and Reverse Grids as Driver Opposition Grows

Citing audience data, Domenicali is floating a weekend overhaul now under discussion with teams and the FIA.

Stefano Domenicali has suggest F1 races could be shortened in the future to appeal to younger audiences. Image: XPB Images
Isack Hadjar, Racing Bulls, Shanghai International Circuit, 2025
The length of grands prix varies depending on the track, weather and any yellow flags or safety cars, and Russell, right, is open to the idea of making some shorter
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Overview

  • Proposals on the table include expanding sprint weekends, revisiting reverse-grid starts, trimming Friday practice and exploring shorter grand prix distances.
  • Domenicali says promoters want more race-style action and claims most drivers now support sprints after talks, including a dinner discussion in Austria.
  • Leading voices such as Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso oppose shortening grands prix, warning it would reduce strategic variation and overtaking opportunities.
  • Some drivers offer nuance: George Russell is open to shortening the longest races, Kimi Antonelli backs more sprints but not shorter GPs, and Esteban Ocon suggests only marginal cuts at outliers like Singapore.
  • F1 leadership argues advanced simulation and AI can offset reduced practice, while fan reaction has been skeptical and no trials or rule changes have been approved.