Max Verstappen, the winner of the sprint race at the Chinese Grand Prix, expressed his thoughts on the new Formula 1 Sprint format for 2024. Verstappen acknowledged that the revised format was an improvement but also pointed out that having more weekends with Sprints would take a toll on 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 ferme 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 straightforward. However, he cautioned against overdoing it and emphasized the added stress it puts on the mechanics and everyone involved. Verstappen believes that while it may attract more viewers, it is important to consider the toll it takes on people.
On the podium with Verstappen were Lando Norris from McLaren and Sergio Perez from Red Bull. Both Norris and Perez stressed the importance of limiting the number of Sprints for the well-being of the team personnel. Norris expressed his preference for the old, original race format, which he grew up watching and enjoyed the most. However, he acknowledged the benefits of Sprints, particularly the added pressure it puts on teams and the opportunity for a mix of strategies. Despite this, Norris emphasized the toll it takes on mechanics and engineers, stating that it is not healthy or sustainable for them.
Perez echoed Norris’ sentiments, highlighting the stress that the Sprint events put on mechanics. With 24 rounds 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 the mechanics and acknowledged that they are already pushed to their limits.
The Sprint action will continue in Miami next weekend, with Austria, Austin, Sao Paulo, and Qatar hosting the remaining Sprints in 2024.