Important changes for Sprints in 2022

In 2021, Formula 1 introduced a new race format during race weekends. In order to attract a new audience and create more excitement, the leaders of the top category of motor sports decided to create the sprint qualifications.

These races on Saturdays were 100km races between the qualifications and Sunday’s race. They were determined by Friday’s qualifications and allowed for the composition of the starting grid for Sunday.

But after some criticism, these sprint qualifications will undergo some changes for 2022. Starting with their name. These races are now simply called: Sprint.

Sprint location:

Like in 2021, there will only be 3 Sprint races in 2022.

– Imola ( 22-24 Avril )

– Autriche ( 8-10 Juillet )

– Brésil ( 11-13 Novembre )

Significant changes:

In order to enhance the show during these Sprint races, some changes have been made.

Firstly, unlike last year, the top 3 will no longer be the only ones to receive points. Now, 8 drivers will be able to finish on Saturday with a difference in the drivers’ and constructors’ standings.

1st = 8 points

2ème = 7 points

2nd = 7 points

3rd = 6 points

4th = 5 points

5ème = 4 points translates to “5th grade = 4 points” in English.

6ème = 3 points would be translated as “6th grade = 3 points” in English.

7th = 2 points

8th = 1 point

The other significant change is that the Sprints will no longer determine the starting grid for Sunday. Good news for drivers like Pierre Gasly, who had seen his weekend turn into a nightmare, where a collision on Saturday also ruined his Sunday.

These two measures should enable drivers to drive more aggressively as the risk/reward factor will be much more appealing.