Formula 1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali has revealed plans to discuss the introduction of reverse grid sprint races with teams and drivers, potentially from 2025. The format, already used in Formula 2 and Formula 3, would see the starting order of sprint races reversed based on qualifying results.
Speaking to The Race, Domenicali confirmed he is ready to present the idea to stakeholders. 'I do believe there are possibilities to extend two things, which we need to discuss, both with the drivers and the teams, and, of course, with the FIA,' he said. 'Can we apply that with more races? And is this the right formula to have the possibility to have a reverse grid, as we are doing with F2 and F3?'
The Sprint format has expanded from three to six events per season, with Domenicali hinting at further increases. 'The vibes to progress in this direction are definitely growing, and therefore I am ready to present and to discuss not only more sprints... but if there are new formats, new ideas,' he added.
Reverse grids have been a staple in feeder series: in F2, the top 10 qualifying positions are reversed for the sprint, while F3 reverses the top 12. Domenicali emphasised a willingness to experiment, stating, 'We are open for that, because I think that is the right thing – to listen to our fans, to try to create something and not to be worried to do mistakes.'
