Post-Sprint Qualifying Procedure

From: The FIA Formula 1 Media Delegate
To: All Officials, All Teams
Document: 10
Date: 22 May 2026
Time: 09:12

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Note to Teams: Post-Sprint Qualifying Procedure

The Post-Sprint Qualifying procedure requires the fastest driver to be interviewed once he has got out of his car. Please ensure the following procedures are strictly followed:

1. Top Three (3) Drivers (SQ3)

• Positioning: If they take the chequered flag at the end of SQ3, the fastest three drivers must return to the Pit Lane and park in front of the 1, 2, 3 boards located in front of the podium near the Pit Lane exit.
• Access Restrictions: Only team mechanics (with cooling fans if necessary), officials, and FIA pre-approved TV crews/photographers are allowed in this designated area. No driver physios or team PR personnel are permitted.
• Weighing: Once out of their cars, the top three drivers will be weighed by the FIA. Drivers must remain fully attired (including helmet, gloves, etc.) until after they have been weighed.
• Interviews:
  • The Post-Sprint Qualifying interview will take place in the designated area with the fastest driver only.
  • If the fastest driver is in the Pit Lane at the end of the session, the team must ensure he goes directly to the designated area once other drivers arrive.
• Pirelli Award & TV Interviews:
  • After the live interview, the fastest driver will be led to the backdrop for a Pirelli Award photo opportunity.
  • The fastest driver will then conduct a pooled TV interview at the rear of the FIA Garages. Note: There will be no Press Conference following the Sprint Qualifying.

2. Other Drivers (SQ1, SQ2, and 2nd-10th in SQ3)

• Drivers eliminated in SQ1 and SQ2, drivers classified from 2nd to 10th in SQ3, and drivers who did not participate in SQ1 but are eligible to race must conduct a pooled TV interview immediately after being weighed by the FIA at the end of their last active session. This will take place directly behind the FIA garage.

3. General Weighing Procedures (Outside Top 3)

• SQ1 & SQ2 Eliminated Drivers: Must proceed to the FIA scales through the pit lane immediately after returning to the team's garage. Drivers must not drink anything or take any action that increases their weight before it is recorded.
• On-Track Stoppages: Any driver who stops on track and is not required to visit the Medical Centre must proceed directly to the FIA scales to be weighed before returning to their team.
• Top 10 Finishers: Must proceed directly to the FIA scales immediately upon exiting their cars without contact with any other person.

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Note: Please refer to the attached Sprint Qualifying - Parc Fermé Diagram for visual layout details.