F1 sprint events could make up ‘one third’ of 2022 calendar

Two of three planned trail events have already been held this year at Silverstone and Monza, with a third sprint race set to take place at next month’s Sao Paulo Grand Prix as F1 continues to evaluate ways to improve the show. 

F1 insisted it would take into account feedback from the teams, drivers and fans alike before making a final decision on whether the format would continue into next season and beyond. 

F1’s managing director of motorsports Ross Brawn was pleased with how the sprint format unfolded at Silverstone but indicated the world championship is open to making changes to certain elements of how the weekend is run. 

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Sky Sports, F1 CEO and president Domenicali admitted the sprint race format could feature at up to seven or eight races in 2022, in line with the start of the sport’s next rules revolution. 

"We said at the beginning of the year there would be three tests this year to make sure we have the right plan for the future," Domenicali said. 

"The vast majority of the comments we received were super positive. Promoters are super happy because there is something new and important on Friday and Saturday and Sunday.

"We are receiving this positive feedback therefore we need to know next year we have a great plan where we will consider also the points highlighted by people who did not like this format. Generally speaking it has been an incredible success.

"I can say we will not go everywhere with the Sprint qualy format. It is something we want to keep for one third of the races more or less and to connect with a certain different way of giving rewards and points and to connect with specific circuits that as you know would make the difference.

"So there is a lot of food for thought. We will involve all the stakeholders: broadcasters, drivers, teams, promoters and fans. We won't forget our role is to take the right decision and to consider all the points and points of view of everyone."

Domenicali also confirmed the 2022 calendar will consist of 23 races between mid-March and mid-November, marking the earliest end of an F1 season in over a decade. 

A provisional 2022 schedule is set to be revealed at the next meeting of the World Motor Sport Council on 15 October. 

"I can anticipate that, for sure, the calendar will be done with 23 races," Domenicali said. 

"Of course we will be very respectful towards the Covid regulations issued around the world from the different governments. But that is our aim that F1 can give this sign of hope and to go to normal things to enjoy.

"The idea is to make sure there is the right rhythm to the calendar. There are of course considerations related to periods to make sure logistically the flow is the right one.

"One thing I can tell you, without discovering too many things, is that next year the season will start in the middle of March and will finish in the middle of November."