There are some changes, such as a new points system, check out the 2023 F1 Sprint race format explained
If you haven’t seen the other Sprint races, there have been some adjustments made, including a new points system.
How does the F1 2023 sprint race format work, rules, points system, meaning explained
Formula One team bosses met together on Sunday morning prior to the Australian Grand Prix to discuss potential schedule alterations and mong other things, the idea of trialling a different qualifying format for the Sprint race, where all drivers get one flying lap, was discussed, but the idea was taken off the table.
Instead, if the plan goes through, qualifying for the Sprint race will take place on Saturday and will adhere to the same style as normal qualifying (with a Q1, Q2 and Q3), although the sessions may be somewhat shorter than qualifying on Friday and this would be because of a potential shortage of tyres and to reduce the stress on key parts such as power unit components.
The fact that the teams are in mutual agreement, however, does not mean that the idea will be put into action definitively as early as four weeks.
PROPOSED SPRINT RACE WEEKEND FORMAT
| Day | Session |
|---|---|
| Friday | First free practice |
| Grand Prix Qualifying | |
| Saturday | Sprint Race Qualifying |
| Sprint Race | |
| Sunday | Grand Prix |
The F1 Sprint will be a 100-kilometer sprint, just like last year, with no mandatory pit stops and competitors giving it their all to the finish.
The driver who ends in first place will now receive eight points, which is a better reward than the previous three points, with one point awarded for eighth place.
These points will be taken into consideration for both the drivers’ and constructors’ championships.
The F1 Sprint finishers will continue to decide the grid for Sunday’s main event, the Grand Prix, in accordance with the event’s customary format.
Who is awarded pole position?
The distinction of taking the pole position went to the prior year’s Sprint champion. The driver who clocks the fastest time in qualifying, which takes place on Friday during Sprint weekends, will receive the distinction this year.
The racer who takes first place on Friday will start the Sprint. On Sunday’s Grand Prix, the Sprint victor will start from the front row.
What about practice?
There will only be two practise periods during Sprint weekends, giving the teams less time to get their cars ready for qualifying and the race.
Before qualifying on Friday, the first will take place, and before the Sprint on Saturday.