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Max Verstappen blasts ‘boring’ F1 sprint races: are they ruining the championship excitement?

Miguel Cunha by Miguel Cunha
January 13, 2026
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 2 mins read
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Max Verstappen blasts ‘boring’ F1 sprint races: are they ruining the championship excitement?

LUSAIL CITY, QATAR - NOVEMBER 27: Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing looks on in the Paddock during previews ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Qatar at Lusail International Circuit on November 27, 2025 in Lusail City, Qatar. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202511270619 // Usage for editorial use only //

Max Verstappen, the illustrious four-time Formula 1 champion, has ignited a fierce debate by denouncing sprint races as “boring” and “unnecessary.” Despite holding the record for sprint race victories—an astonishing 13 wins out of 24 since their inception in 2021—Verstappen has made it clear that he is not a fan of these rapid-fire races that take place on Saturdays during grand prix weekends.

In a candid interview, Verstappen expressed his frustrations with the current sprint format, emphasizing that they disrupt the traditional race weekend schedule. “Most of these unnecessary appearances on Saturday were also rather boring,” he stated bluntly to Blick. He continued to articulate his concerns, pointing out that the intense pace of these events places undue stress on the mechanics, who are already operating in two shifts during race weekends. “And most fans forget something: this constant activity is especially stressful for the mechanics,” he added, acknowledging the behind-the-scenes pressure that often goes unnoticed.

In the 2025 season, there were six sprint races, with Verstappen claiming two of them, while fellow competitors Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton also made their mark. Norris, who ultimately clinched the drivers’ championship by just two points over Verstappen, showcased the competitive stakes of these shorter races, which offer additional championship points. Yet, even with the potential for extra points, Verstappen remains staunchly opposed to the format.

Looking ahead to the 2026 season, Formula 1 is set to continue with six sprint races, but with significant changes to the venues. Traditional locations like China and Miami will host sprint weekends, while Silverstone is preparing for its first sprint race since 2021. Excitingly, fans can also look forward to sprint races in Montreal, Zandvoort, and Singapore for the first time. However, in a notable shift, Qatar and Brazil will return to standard race weekends, indicating a conscious effort to streamline the sprint race calendar earlier in the season.

As the F1 circus gears up for the new season, Verstappen’s criticisms have sparked a broader conversation about the future of sprint races in Formula 1. Are they a thrilling addition or merely a distraction from the core spectacle of racing? One thing is certain—this debate is far from over, and as Verstappen leads the charge with his outspoken views, the motorsport world will be watching closely to see how the sport evolves.

Tags: 1958-formula-1-season2025-seasonLando NorrisLewis Hamiltonmax-verstappen-en
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