The drivers want an independent sprint from the Sunday race
Some drivers have delivered their opinions on the sprint format. The novelty of 2021 has somewhat changed its rules this season, and drivers would like it to be autonomous and not decide the starting order for Sunday's race, which would favor taking risks.
In the criticisms heard about the sprint qualifications last year, it was often said that it resembled a long procession until the finish. The risk/potential gain ratio did not encourage drivers to attempt overtakes, and those who were satisfied with their position on the grid simply aimed for a trouble-free finish.
There were only a few points to be gained (only for the top three, this year the top 8 will be rewarded). Some drivers are questioning the format and think it would be interesting to separate the sprint from the Sunday race. Thus, the qualifying would determine the starting order for the race and the sprint, and the latter would only award points without affecting the grid for Sunday.
This will help us take a little more risks maybe during the sprints without losing too much on Sundays in case you make a mistake. It could add some excitement for the Saturday sprint. In fact, it could be a good idea, thinks Charles Leclerc.
The Monégasque driver was joined by Kevin Magnussen. « I think the idea of qualifying is good. If Friday’s qualifying determined the grid position for Sunday, as well as for the sprint race, it could be a lot of fun. You add some spectacle to the weekend and you can fully fight in the sprint race. », explains the Danish driver.
An idea that could be adopted by the FIA as the sprint format is still in its infancy in the premier category. In addition to the Imola weekend, two other Grand Prix will be held in sprint format this season (Austria and Brazil). Last year, three sprints were also held at Silverstone, Monza, and Interlagos, and received mixed reviews from fans.
