AZERBAIJAN: Despite F1 bosses changing the format of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix with a sprint shootout deciding the sprint grid and Saturday acting as a separate event from the race itself, Max Verstappen continues to criticise the sprint format.
The sprint is now a standalone race, with qualifying on Friday afternoon deciding the main race’s grid.
Verstappen has often been against the sprint format and explained that there is not much reward for the level of risk placed on the cars at the front.
He believes that the sprint race does not make a massive difference once a driver is upfront. He elaborates that the risk of potentially having a shunt is much higher.
Verstappen has often suggested that further changes to the weekend format could make him consider his future in F1. He reiterated that he believed the traditional way of doing things was the best.
While other drivers seem primarily pleased with the shake-up, Verstappen thinks that the sprint format would not change much for drivers who are already at the front, as they would be happy with their position and focus on getting points and preparing for the race.
“At the end of the day, you have to be okay with it,” Verstappen said. He adds that he loves racing. However, he feels no need to change the usual F1 weekend structure. “I always thought that Sunday was great,” he remarked.
Verstappen also suggested shortening the weekend if there are more than 24 or 25 race weekends to make it healthier for the drivers.
He stated that adding sprint weekends would make it even more busy for the teams and their personnel.
The F1 Sprint format was introduced in 2021 and received mixed reviews from drivers and fans alike.
Some believe it adds excitement to the sport, while others think it is unnecessary and risky.
While everyone may not share Verstappen’s criticisms of the sport, it highlights the importance of considering the opinions and concerns of the drivers at the forefront of the sport.
As the F1 Sprint format evolves, it will be interesting to see how the drivers and the sport respond to these changes.
Also Read: F1 Unveils New “Sprint Shootout” Format for Azerbaijan Grand Prix
