Formula 1 is considering doubling its sprint races to 12 per year starting in 2027 and exploring changes to regular race weekends for more action across three days. CEO Stefano Domenicali emphasized the need for calm regarding the 2026 regulations amid early testing concerns. These discussions occurred during pre-season testing in Bahrain.
Formula 1's commercial rights holder Liberty Media is pushing to increase sprint races from six to 12 annually from 2027, driven by greater fan, broadcaster, and promoter interest, despite added strain on drivers and teams. The goal is to ensure meaningful on-track action every day, including competitive elements on Fridays instead of just free practice sessions.
"The reason why we started to discuss the number of sprints and maybe some different format is because of the feedback we received from the fans, the promoters, that people want to see real action during the three days, so already on Friday people want to see something sporting – qualifying or whatever it is," Domenicali said during pre-season testing in Bahrain. To address challenges for rookie drivers, F1 is considering extra practice time on sprint weekends.
Regarding the calendar, F1 plans to maintain 24 races per year, with potential additions in Turkey, Southeast Asia, or Africa unlikely before 2029 due to ongoing negotiations in places like Rwanda, Thailand, and South Korea. Barcelona will host in even years, alternating with Belgium, while Portugal returns at Portimao and Madrid prepares a semi-permanent track. On Turkey, Domenicali noted: "Turkey is not 100% confirmed. Stay tuned on Turkey."
Separately, Domenicali urged restraint over the 2026 regulations, which feature a near-50/50 split between electric and combustion energy, sustainable fuels, and attracted manufacturers like Audi, GM, Ford, and Honda. Early Bahrain testing revealed issues such as insufficient energy for full-lap speed and concerns over energy harvesting, safety, and overtaking from drivers including Max Verstappen, who called the rules "anti-racing."
"I don't feel this anxiety, we need to stay calm because as always when there is something happening with new regulations there's always the doubt that everything is wrong," Domenicali told reporters. He highlighted constructive driver meetings and an open F1 Commission approach to potential tweaks before the season starts. Domenicali dismissed panic over racing quality, asserting the new cars maintain excitement in speed and sound, and affirmed Verstappen's commitment to F1.
