F1 teams offer 'broad support' for Sprint Race trial

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F1 teams have offered their "broad support" for a Sprint Race trial this season, with a final vote on the plan set to take place before the start of the 2021 season.

F1 is set to test the merits of a 100-kilometer sprint race that would replace qualifying on Saturday afternoon and would determine the grid for Sunday's event.

The concept would be trialed at the Canadian, Italian and Brazilian Grands Prix as the three circuits typically provide exciting races.

However, teams wish to do more due diligence on the idea, especially regarding the risks and costs involved in running in the short Saturday race.

"All teams recognised the major importance of engaging fans in new and innovative ways to ensure an even more exciting weekend format," said the FIA on Thursday.

"There was, therefore, broad support from all parties for a new qualifying format at some races, and a working group has been tasked with creating a complete plan with the aim to reach a final decision before the start for the 2021 championship."

Read also: Formula 1 teams approve engine freeze from 2022!

During the online meeting, it was also agreed to allocate the 'TBC' May 2 slot to the Portuguese GP, pending a final approval with the Portimão promoter.

Finally, the F1 Commission also confirmed the number of days allocated to Pirelli for testing F1's new 18-inch wheels, with the number increased from 25 to 30.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.