F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has confirmed that the introduction of reverse grid races is actively being discussed as a future format change for the sport. This move, if implemented, would represent one of the most significant overhauls in Formula 1 history.
Why it matters
The potential shift aims to keep the sport fresh and enhance entertainment value for fans. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has expressed openness to such changes, signaling a willingness within teams to explore new formats.
The big picture
Formula 1 previously introduced sprint races in 2021, expanding them from three to six events annually. Reverse grids are already a feature in junior categories like Formula 2 and Formula 3, where the top 10 (or 12 for F3) from qualifying start in reverse order for a shorter sprint race before reverting to normal grid positions for the main feature race.
The debate
The specific implementation of reverse grid races in F1 remains unclear. Key questions include how they would be incorporated into a race weekend and their potential impact on championship dynamics. The discussion highlights F1's ongoing efforts to innovate its race weekend formats.