Max Verstappen, the winner of the sprint race at the Chinese Grand Prix, shared his thoughts on the new Formula 1 sprint race format for 2024. Verstappen acknowledged that the revised format was an improvement, but also highlighted that having more weekends with sprints would affect everyone involved. The new format was tested for the first time during the Chinese Grand Prix and involved scheduling the sprint sessions before qualifying. On Saturday morning, the sprint race took place, followed by adjustments to the cars in parc fermé before the GP qualifying in the afternoon. Verstappen, after his dominant victory in the Grand Prix, gave his opinion on the new format, stating that it was better and more direct. However, he cautioned against overdoing it and emphasized the additional stress it causes on mechanics and everyone involved. Verstappen believes that, although it may attract more viewers, it is important to consider the impact it has on people.
On the podium with Verstappen were Lando Norris from McLaren and Sergio Perez from Red Bull. Both Norris and Perez emphasized the importance of limiting the number of sprints for the well-being of the team. Norris expressed his preference for the old original race format, which he grew up watching and liked the most. However, he acknowledged the benefits of sprints, especially the additional pressure it puts on teams and the opportunity for a mix of strategies. Despite this, Norris emphasized the impact it has on mechanics and engineers, stating that it is not healthy or sustainable for them.
Perez echoed Norris’ sentiments, highlighting the stress that sprint events cause on mechanics. With 24 races on the calendar, Perez believes it is crucial to take care of the people involved in the sport. He emphasized the need to consider the well-being of mechanics and recognized that they are already at the limit.
The sprint action will continue in Miami next weekend, with Austria, Austin, São Paulo, and Qatar hosting the remaining sprints in 2024.
