F1 Sprint Races Explained: Format, Qualifying, and Points System

Formula 1 weekends are major events, with six out of 24 weekends featuring standalone sprint races. These shorter, more dynamic races offer an alternative to the traditional Grand Prix format, encouraging flat-out racing from start to finish.

What are F1 Sprint Races?

Sprint races are short competitions covering approximately 100 km, or about one-third of a typical Grand Prix distance. Lasting roughly 30 minutes, they are designed to be intense, strategy-light events. Unlike a Grand Prix, sprint races do not feature mandatory pit stops, prioritizing pure racing action.

How the Weekend Changes

A sprint weekend significantly alters the traditional F1 schedule to accommodate the additional race.

• Traditional Weekend: Three practice sessions, one qualifying session, and the Grand Prix.
• Sprint Weekend:
  • Friday: One practice session, followed by the "Sprint Shootout" (a qualifying session that sets the grid for the sprint race).
  • Saturday: The sprint race takes place, followed by the traditional Grand Prix qualifying session later in the day.
  • Sunday: The Grand Prix main event.

Sprint Qualifying Explained

The qualifying session for the sprint race, often called the "Sprint Shootout," occurs on Friday afternoon and is divided into three stages:

• Stage 1 (SQ1): The five slowest drivers are eliminated.
• Stage 2 (SQ2): Five more drivers are cut.
• Stage 3 (SQ3): The remaining 10 drivers compete to determine the sprint race grid, with the fastest driver starting from pole position.

Points System

Extra championship points are awarded to the top eight finishers in a sprint race:

• 1st Place: 8 points
• 2nd Place: 7 points
• 3rd Place: 6 points
• 4th Place: 5 points
• 5th Place: 4 points
• 6th Place: 3 points
• 7th Place: 2 points
• 8th Place: 1 point

Why Sprint Races?

F1 introduced the sprint race format in 2021 with the primary goal of enhancing fan engagement by providing more meaningful on-track action throughout the race weekend. These races are held at six carefully selected venues each season that are best suited to the format.

2025 Sprint Race Calendar

• May 2-4: Miami Grand Prix
• July 25-27: Belgian Grand Prix
• Oct. 17-19: United States Grand Prix (Austin, Texas)
• Nov. 7-9: São Paulo Grand Prix
• Nov. 28-30: Qatar Grand Prix