Ferrari backs F1 to consider 'fun' reverse grid races after Hamilton fightback

F1 is set to have six sprint events next year, with plans set to be agreed over the winter break.

With the current sprint qualifying format providing little excitement on the Saturday especially, Ross Brawn and his team are keen to spice up the action for next season.

Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto thinks one way of doing that is by introducing reverse grid races.

Hamilton was forced to start from the back of the grid in Saturday’s sprint qualifying at Interlagos due to a DRS technical infringement.

The seven-time champion stormed through the field to finish fifth, making it arguably the most exciting sprint of the season.

Using Brazil as an example, Binotto believes reverse grid races would work in F1.

“I think it is,” Binotto replied when asked if reverse grid races are a feasible idea “Honestly because of so what happened with so many overtakes, so much fun.

“I think we should really consider it and that’s obviously for the sprint race format and having seen what happened, I think it’s not debatable.”

Charles Leclerc agreed with his team boss, saying there’s “potential” for reverse grid races in F1.

“I don't know, seeing a fast car starting from the back and coming back that much, it could be exciting if many fast cars start from the back,” he said after the sprint in Brazil.

“I think we'll have to see, I don't know what are the plans but I'm pretty sure the FIA will look into it and try to find the best solution and the most exciting one especially for Saturday.

“I think it was entertaining at the end of the race but seeing he [Hamilton] was so close to me after 20 laps already, it feels like there's potential for that too.”