F1 proposes three sprint races instead of six in 2022
Baku, February 4, AZERTAC
Formula 1 is trying to break the deadlock over its sprint event format plan by offering teams a compromise arrangement for 2022, according to RaceFans.
Having held its first three sprint qualifying races last year, F1 planned to scale up the trial by holding six more in 2022, starting with the season-opening round in Bahrain.
The sprint event format was added to last year’s rules but has not yet been formally incorporated into the 2022 regulations. F1 therefore needs the support of teams to amend the rules in order hold any sprint events this year.
Its hopes of holding six sprints have been dashed by three teams which have pressed for an increase in the budget cap in order to cover a potential rise in costs from damage incurred during the extra races. McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown last month claimed those pushing for an increase in the cost were “effectively holding the sport hostage”.
All 10 teams face the additional challenge of preparing cars to a radically overhauled set of technical regulations for the 2022 season. RaceFans understands F1 therefore is willing to reduce the number of sprint events this year from the originally proposed six to just three once againas a compromise solution.
Sprint events were originally due to take place at Bahrain, Imola, Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Red Bull Ring, Zandvoort and Interlagos this year.
The series is also considering alterations to the format in order to address concerns which arose following its introduction last year. These include increasing the number of points awarded and identifying the pole position winner as the driver who set the quickest time in a regular qualifying session.
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