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Formula 1’s new ‘sprint’ format could eventually become the standard approach to a grand prix weekend, says managing director Ross Brawn.
Brawn said F1 “wants to take progressive rather than radical steps” with the format.
But he said there was “no reason” why having a one-third distance race in addition to qualifying and the grand prix could not be used at all events in future.
“It’s open. It could evolve that way, but if it does, it will be because it’s the best thing to do,” Brawn said.
F1 has in principle agreed with teams and governing body the FIA to increase the number of ‘sprint’ events to six next year, and they are assessing how to modify the format to reflect the lessons of this year, as previously reported by BBC Sport.
“We are taking it carefully step by step and off the back of six you can decide whether you want to increase the number,” Brawn said.
“I don’t think we should be afraid of doing that because, if we did that, it would be a measure of the success of the sprint. And if that is the format for the future then we have gone about it the right way.
“Equally, we may conclude that having it as a showcase event adds interest to the season.”
He added no firm decision would be made “until we get there and we can measure the responses”.
The ‘sprint’ format has been introduced at three grands prix this season in an attempt to add extra entertainment value to the weekend.
It moves qualifying to Friday to set the grid for the ‘sprint’ on Saturday. The result of this race – one-third the distance of a grand prix – sets the grid for the main event.
Brawn said F1 bosses and teams were evaluating the success of the new format, which has featured at the British and Italian races, with one more to come in Brazil this month.
And he emphasised: “The trick is to make sure we never cannibalise the main event. We want to enhance that, so we are mindful of not detracting from the Sunday event whatever we do.” — BBC Sport
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