Max Verstappen has consistently voiced his disapproval of Formula 1’s utilization of sprint races since the onset of the 2021 season. However, he has now adopted a more favorable stance towards the latest alteration in format.
“The Chinese Grand Prix makes a welcome return to the F1 calendar this weekend after a five-year hiatus, marking the commencement of the Sprint weekend at the Shanghai International Circuit,” remarked Verstappen.
A significant modification to this year’s format permits teams to make adjustments by lifting parc fermé restrictions for a three-hour window between the sprint race and grand prix qualifying on Saturday.
This stands in contrast to the previous system, wherein car setups remained locked in place for the entire weekend following the singular practice session.
“Well, I think it makes more sense,” Verstappen stated.
“For me, I think actually the most annoying bit about it before was that after FP1 you would go into qualifying and if you wouldn’t, let’s say, nail the setup, you’re stuck with it for the rest of the weekend.
“That can really hurt your weekend. I think now, at least we have a few more opportunities to try and make it perfect. I think that’s better for racing overall.”
Verstappen’s reservations regarding the Chinese Sprint weekend stem partly from Formula 1’s prolonged absence from the Shanghai International Circuit, spanning half a decade.
“With new cars, a freshly laid track surface, and only one hour of practice time, F1 might be in for a tumultuous weekend on the circuit,” observed several drivers in the lead-up to the event.
Nevertheless, the Dutch driver concedes that the element of unpredictability could have its merits for both fans and the commercial aspect of F1.
“Of course, we haven’t been here in a couple of years. So, it probably also spices it up a little bit more and is a bit more unknown,” he remarked.
“Things can happen, I guess, when you’re not as well prepared. So, I guess that’s always a bit more interesting for the fans, etc.”
Despite this, he remains unconvinced that the aforementioned factors alone warrant the Chinese Grand Prix to adopt a Sprint race format this year. Verstappen reiterated his stance that F1 should have instead opted for a traditional weekend in Shanghai.
“No, not necessarily,” he responded when questioned about whether the factors cited were adequate justification for F1’s decision.
“Ideally, of course, I would have would have preferred a normal weekend here. But at least now we get to try the new format, and hopefully that already will be better. And I think it will be better than what we had before.”
