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Formula 1 is preparing for a fundamental restructuring of its race weekend format, with Liberty Media and FIA officials actively exploring the expansion of sprint races from the current six to a potential 12 per season beginning in 2027. This shift is driven by feedback from fans, broadcasters, and circuit promoters seeking competitive action across every day of a grand prix weekend.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali confirmed the expansion plans in December 2025, emphasizing that the sport will present a comprehensive package of changes to teams and drivers in the coming months. While no sprint races are scheduled for the 2026 season, the 2027 calendar is positioned as the threshold for this ambitious overhaul, which Liberty Media views as essential for maintaining commercial momentum and spectator engagement.
The push to double sprints stems from a persistent challenge: Fridays have historically offered minimal meaningful content for fans. The traditional free practice sessions—primarily focused on vehicle setup and data collection—often lack the dramatic appeal of competitive racing. By introducing more sprint weekends and competitive Friday elements, F1 aims to ensure spectators have reason to attend or tune in for all three days.
For non-sprint weekends, F1 is evaluating alternatives, including longer free practice sessions, exclusive young driver running, or introducing qualifying elements on Friday. Domenicali explained: "We're thinking to keep relevant every day that we are on track, and of course, to protect the time needed for the rookies to have time to run".
The expansion has backing from influential figures, including Alpine's Flavio Briatore, who advocates for even more ambitious changes. Briatore argued: "With a weekend format with sprints on Fridays, the drivers are fighting for something", framing increased competition as a way to transform Fridays from engineering-focused sessions into spectator-friendly entertainment.
However, F1 must navigate concerns about rookie development. Restricting free practice through expanded sprints could disadvantage inexperienced drivers who need substantial track time to acclimate to unfamiliar circuits. F1’s proposed solution is to carve out dedicated rookie practice opportunities within the revised weekend structure.
While the 12-sprint concept has gained traction, no final decision has been reached. Domenicali indicated that confirmation on 2027’s exact sprint count is expected "in the next months", allowing time to evaluate how more competitive weekends affect racing quality and driver welfare.
This evolution reflects F1’s broader ambition to balance commercial interests with competitive integrity—ensuring every moment of a grand prix weekend delivers championship drama.
He’s a software engineer with a deep passion for Formula 1 and motorsport. He co-founded Formula Live Pulse to make live telemetry and race insights accessible, visual, and easy to follow.
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