Domenicali puts reverse grids back on the table for F1 Sprint races

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali is gearing up for talks with teams, drivers, and the FIA on potential changes to the Sprint race format – including adding more events and introducing the hotly debated idea of reverse grids.

The proposals, aimed at injecting fresh excitement into the sport, promise to spark another round of intense discussions between F1’s stakeholders.

Sprint races have become a polarizing addition to Formula 1’s race weekend format, with six events scheduled this season, four of which have already taken place. Despite mixed reactions, Domenicali is keen to take the concept to the next level.

“I do believe there are possibilities to extend two things, which we need to discuss, both with the drivers and the teams, and, of course, with the FIA,” he said in a podcast interview with The Race.

“There are: can we apply that [Sprint schedules] with more races? And is this the right formula to have the possibility to have a reverse grid, as we are doing with F2 and F3?

“These are points of discussion. I think that we are getting there to be mature to make sure that this point will be tackled seriously with the teams.

“The vibes to progress in this direction are definitely growing, and therefore I’m ready to present and to discuss not only more sprints…but if there are new formats, new ideas.”

Listening to Fans, Testing Boundaries

Domenicali insists any evolution of the format must keep fans in min, but he’s not afraid to take risks.

“We are open for that, because I think that’s the right thing – to listen to our fans, to try to create something, and not to be worried to do mistakes. The one who believes to do no mistakes doesn’t do anything new.”

Domenicali made clear that scrapping Sprints altogether is off the table.

“I think that the Sprint, whatever will be the right format, we need to have it. It will represent the future,” he said.

As for matching MotoGP’s full-season Sprint schedule, Domenicali sees growth – but certainly not a leap to 24 rounds.

“I’m not saying no, but I think that, between six and 24, we have to do steps into the middle,” he concluded.

Whether the sport embraces more Sprints or takes the daring step toward reverse grids, its CEO’s readiness to challenge convention could redefine the racing spectacle for years to come.

• Read also: F1 to retain controversial two-stop rule for 2026 Monaco GP

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