Max Verstappen has secured victory in both the Chinese Grand Prix and Miami Grand Prix sprint races to kick off the 2024 Formula 1 season. The sprint race format has been modified for increased excitement and competition, with qualifying taking place on Friday, following the only practice session of the weekend. The 100km sprint race is held as the first track action on Saturday, before main qualifying for the grand prix later in the day.
The purpose of changing the sprint format was to enhance the show for fans and shake up traditional race weekend dynamics. Teams voted in February to retain the same sessions but reorganize their order of occurrence. Last season, Saturday was dedicated to the sprint event, leading to a ‘sprint shootout’ to determine pole position for the 100km race. However, this caused drivers to be more cautious in the sprint race to avoid damaging their chances in the main grand prix.
In an effort to eliminate this caution and increase competition, teams have voted to change the sprint format for increased excitement. Now, each sprint race features a sprint shootout with three sessions, leading to the elimination of the slowest five cars at the end of each session. Points are awarded to