Formula 1 introduces a new Sprint weekend format for the 2023 season, featuring an additional qualifying session, known as the Sprint Shootout. The new format, approved by the F1 Commission and World Motor Sport Council, will be implemented in the 6 scheduled Sprint weekends, with the Azerbaijan Grand Prix being the first. Previously, a Friday qualifying session set the grid for Saturday’s shortened race, which in turn sets the Sunday Grand Prix grid. The updated schedule will have Friday’s qualifying session set the grid for Sunday’s race, while Saturday features a standalone double of the Sprint Shootout to determine the order for the shortened 100km race that follows. The Sprint Shootout will be similar to the regular F1 qualifying session, with shorter periods and eight-minute final period. Teams are required to use new sets of tires in each part of the Sprint Shootout. The Sprint winner scores eight points, with that amount decreasing by a point for each of the top eight. The changes remove a second practice session on Saturday morning and encourage drivers to take more risks on a Saturday. The F1 Commission also allowed an increase in the number of power unit elements. Sky Sports F1 will air the Sprint and Sunday race live on April 28-30. Get your Sky Sports subscription now.
