Formula One said yesterday it will debut a new sprint qualifying format at three races in the 2021 season after it was unanimously approved, with the events to be hosted at two European and one non-European Grands Prix.
The new format will have a qualifying session after the first free practice session on Friday to determine the grid for sprint qualifying on Saturday.
The results from sprint qualifying — where drivers will compete over 100km — will determine the grid for Sunday’s race while the top three finishers also receive three, two and one point respectively.
“I am delighted that all the teams supported this plan,” Formula One president and CEO Stefano Domenicali said in a statement.
“It is a testament to our united efforts to continue to engage our fans in new ways while ensuring we remain committed to the heritage and meritocracy of our sport.”
Domenicali had earlier said one of the sprint races would be at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone in July.
The next race weekend is the Portuguese Grand Prix from April 30-May 2.
Defending champion Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes leads the 2021 standings after two races with 44 points, one point ahead of Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.
Spectators could return for Monaco GP, says F1 chief
A limited number of spectators could be allowed to attend the Monaco Grand Prix on May 23, Domenicali revealed on Sunday.
However, no fans will be allowed at the races in Portugal next weekend and Spain on May 9.
“We are monitoring the situation on a daily basis, which is changing hour by hour,” Domenicali told Sky TG24.
“In the next Grands Prix of Portugal and Spain, unfortunately we will not have anyone, but Monaco is presented as the first where a limited number of people should be admitted on Sunday.
“It gives us hope for the future, because if the situation improves there will be a gradual reopening and fans will have the opportunity to participate.”
The Italian added: “There is an incredible physical desire for Formula One, not just on television.”
During the season-opening Bahrain GP in March, a few spectators who were vaccinated or cured of Covid-19 were able to witness Lewis Hamilton’s win.
Monaco announced 10 days ago an easing of health restrictions in the Principality, but without a decision on the Grand Prix, the fifth round of this season’s calendar.