Monaco's 2027 sprint race surprises F1 drivers

F1's 2027 calendar features 10 sprint races, and while the sequence of grands prix is logical, the venue choices have raised eyebrows. Monaco, where overtaking is notoriously difficult, is now a sprint weekend — a decision that surprised even the drivers.

Why it matters:

The sprint format at Monaco means qualifying twice on the streets of Monte Carlo, but it also forces drivers to take risks in a race where position changes are rare. With little reward for gaining a spot or two, the weekend could become more about survival than spectacle.

The details:

• F1 increased sprint races to 10 for 2027, with Bahrain's opener and Abu Dhabi's finale both getting sprint weekends.
• Monaco's selection was the biggest surprise. Sergio Perez said he found out through the drivers' WhatsApp group, which was "a bit busy" with reactions.
• Max Verstappen remains unimpressed: "I don't care where the sprint races are. I have no emotion attached to winning a sprint race or not winning it."
• Racing Bulls' Arvid Lindblad admitted drivers might ease off in sprint qualifying: "If you're P15, maybe you don't try as hard."
• Lindblad believes Baku would be a better sprint venue, but it's not on the schedule for 2026 or 2027.

What's next:

The sprint calendar will be tested across very different circuits, from Bahrain's wide track to Monaco's narrow streets. The question is whether the format brings excitement or just more processions — and whether drivers will hold back when the risk outweighs the reward.