Sainz says sprint format needs some spice

Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz says that talks are ongoing over a way to spice-up Formula 1’s sprint weekend format.

2021 saw the debut of sprint qualifying at three rounds across the season, the format seeing a sprint race setting the grid for the main grands prix.

The traditional Q1, Q2 and Q3 qualifying moves forward a day, determining the sprint grid.

The trials were enough to convince Formula 1 to roll out sprint qualifying again in 2022, once more at three rounds, the first of those having now taken place.

Sprint Qualifying returns at Imola

Rosberg predicts 'more heated moments' between Hamilton Wolff

Troubles for Sainz continue - Imola GP Conclusions

Bottas a driver reformed at Alfa Romeo

Hamilton says he’ll decide “when my masterpiece is finished”

Finally signs of life at Aston Martin

Leclerc’s Self-Destructive Side Comes Out - Italian GP Conclusions

Sebastian Vettel addresses rumours of Red Bull return

Sainz had used the sprint at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix to bring himself back into contention after crashing in qualifying, starting P10 but finishing P4.

That hard work was undone though by Daniel Ricciardo after the McLaren driver spun Sainz into the gravel on the opening lap of the race.

Sainz believes there is “good potential” in the sprint format, with discussions ongoing over how to add a bit more “spice”.

“It’s something that we are discussing with FOM and FIA to maybe spice up a bit the sprint weekend,” he said, quoted by Motorsportweek.com.

“I think there is good potential there.”

But, Sainz is concerned with the growing schedule for drivers, not only in terms of races on the expanding calendar, but also due to the increasing number of meetings and other activities which drivers now also are faced with on a