The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Formula One Group has advocated for a greater emphasis on entertainment in the sport in order to attract an expanding global audience. Since assuming leadership of the organization in 2021, the Italian executive has implemented numerous changes, the most significant of which is the introduction of the Sprint race format.
Despite undergoing various modifications, the fundamental concept of the Sprint race has remained unchanged. It involves a shorter race preceding the main event, serving to captivate spectators and enhance the anticipation leading up to Sunday’s race.
However, the format has not been without its critics. Some argue that the sheer number of races throughout the year has diminished the significance of each individual event, while drivers themselves have voiced concerns about the reduced preparation time due to the elimination of two practice sessions during a Sprint weekend.
Nevertheless, Sprint races have consistently delivered excitement, featuring numerous overtakes and intense wheel-to-wheel battles over the years. Now, Domenicali aims to elevate the spectacle even further by reversing the starting order for Sprint Qualifying, thereby facilitating even more overtaking maneuvers and thrilling charges through the field.
In an exclusive interview with motorsport.com, Domenicali discussed the changing perception of the Sprint format. He acknowledged, “When we initially introduced it, we faced significant criticism from purists – individuals whose opinions we must always heed, even if they are dissatisfied.”
“However, I believe that the narrative has now shifted completely. I am convinced that the changes we have implemented this year are the right ones for multiple reasons, such as separate qualifying and parc ferme. The overall flow has greatly improved,” stated the CEO of Formula One.
Domenicali went on to suggest that the next step in the evolution of Formula One could involve the implementation of reverse grids. He elaborated, “There are always certain topics that generate considerable debate. We can once again deliberate on the necessity of reversing the starting grid, perhaps even for half of the grid, similar to what Formula 2 and Formula 3 are doing.”
“These are perennially thought-provoking matters that keep our minds engaged, with the aim of ensuring perpetual intrigue,” he added.
While the concept of reverse grids was previously explored in Formula One a few years ago, it was met with widespread disapproval from drivers and teams across the grid. Nonetheless, Domenicali remains intrigued by the idea and intends to reopen discussions on the matter. He concluded, “Personally, I would ask, why not? It delivers a wealth of action and overtaking. You are vying for valuable points.”
“Some may argue that it constitutes a contrived form of racing. Contrived? There is nothing contrived about selecting the format that you believe will produce captivating action. Therefore, I would be eager to resume that discussion. Absolutely,” he asserted.
Photo from Domenicali Instagram
