F1 drivers divided on the concept of reverse grids and sprint races.

      "I don’t think I’ll go beyond twelve sprints."

      19 September 2025 - 11:27

      Formula 1 drivers have expressed varying opinions about the potential inclusion of reverse-grid races along with a significant increase in sprint events. The sport is anticipated to double its sprint weekends from six to twelve in 2027, with reverse grids being one of the concepts suggested by F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.

      Nico Hulkenberg expressed that he appreciates the current sprint format, but he is uncertain about the idea of reversing the grid order. "Reverse grid stuff? Honestly, I don’t know," stated the Sauber driver. "I have mixed feelings about it, and it depends on how they would want to implement it. It’s a challenge F1 faces.

      "The sport is popular; of course, there’s always a desire to enhance and boost the entertainment aspect, but it’s also important to maintain a balance with the performance side."

      Pierre Gasly, who leads the struggling Alpine team, humorously noted that he would not have opposed a reverse grid format this year, but he emphasized that F1 should safeguard its core identity. He made it clear that he does not favor the sprint format.

      "From a driver’s perspective, you have three sessions that allow you to work on the car," began the French driver, referencing the traditional weekend structure. "Engineering-wise, it's beneficial from session to session to optimize and refine the car for qualifying, and then there’s one main race, which is the main event. I’d prefer to keep it as it is."

      Oscar Piastri, who leads the championship, was more direct. "I think reverse grids... it might be obvious from my perspective, but it’s a bad idea," said the McLaren driver. "In Formula 1, there’s nothing more important than winning the championship. The last thing we want is for decisions to be made due to reverse grid races."

      Meanwhile, rookie Gabriel Bortoleto is against even the increase in sprints. "During a sprint weekend, there’s not a lot of time, so you have to act quickly without necessarily being able to make the most of it," remarked the Brazilian. "It’s good for the fans, but I don’t believe I’ll go beyond twelve sprints—that’s already a high threshold for me."

      He cautioned that doubling the number of sprints could complicate matters for rookies. "Teams might be more hesitant in hiring rookies because they’ll realize there’s less time for them to adapt with 12 sprints," he added.