Lando Norris is speaking up about the potential problems with Sprint Race weekends in Formula 1. The McLaren driver, who has started the 2024 season strong with podium finishes in the MCL38, is concerned about the sustainability of Sprint races in the long run.
The first Sprint races were introduced in 2021 with just three events a year. This season features six Sprint weekends, with FOM noting the increased viewership during these weekends.
Last weekend in Shanghai, wet weather made for an unpredictable qualifying session and an exciting starting grid for the Saturday Sprint.
Despite Max Verstappen quickly taking his usual spot at the front, the races were not without interesting moments further back in the field. Even though the Dutchman won on Sunday, the races created plenty of buzz.
Still, fans have mixed feelings about Sprint races. Many remain critical of the format from an entertainment perspective. However, as long as Friday viewership continues to rise, it seems this format is here to stay.
Norris Voices Concerns About Sprint Race Impact
“The main concern is the toll it takes on mechanics and engineers,” Norris said after the race in Shanghai.
“I don’t think it’s too bad for us as drivers, to be honest. We can’t complain. But the hundreds of mechanics and engineers have to travel so much, which isn’t healthy for them and isn’t sustainable.
“So, the issue isn’t about us as drivers. People need to think about the whole team. This is a big limiting factor.”
This is a crucial part of the conversation about Sprint races that is often overlooked. Even without Sprint weekends, the F1 schedule is packed, making working in Formula 1 incredibly demanding.
This affects not only the drivers but also the engineers, mechanics, and other staff in the paddock. Future decisions should focus on making the F1 calendar more sustainable for everyone involved.
For now, it’s unclear what the future holds for Sprint races. It’s unlikely FOM will completely abandon the format unless viewership drops significantly. However, adding more Sprint races will need agreement from teams, which currently seems uncertain.
