F1 Set to Increase Sprint Races to Nine or 10 Rounds in 2027

Formula 1 is poised to expand its sprint schedule for 2027, with F1 President Stefano Domenicali strongly indicating that the current tally of six sprint weekends will rise to as many as nine or 10 rounds next season.

Why it matters:

The proposed expansion would be the most significant change to the sprint format since it grew from three to six events in 2023, bringing nearly half the calendar under the condensed weekend structure. Domenicali has championed the concept as a way to deliver meaningful on-track action from Friday through Sunday, citing strong attendance at Silverstone as proof that fans want competitive sessions every day.

The details:

• Speaking at the British Grand Prix, Domenicali said the format had overcome initial skepticism since its 2021 debut. He stressed that giving fans "action" on Friday is essential, noting the 150,000 spectators who attended the opening day.
• Teams currently get one practice session before sprint qualifying on Friday. The 100km sprint race runs on Saturday, followed by grand prix qualifying.
• The 2026 season has held sprints in China, Miami, Canada, and the UK so far, with the Netherlands and Singapore still to come.
• Max Verstappen leads all drivers with 13 sprint wins. Lando Norris has four, while Oscar Piastri and George Russell each have three.

What's next:

The finalized 2027 calendar, including confirmed sprint events, is expected imminently. The schedule already features the return of the Portuguese and Turkish Grands Prix, while the Dutch Grand Prix drops off after this season. Barcelona is also set to rotate with Belgium, with its next appearance slated for 2028.