2026 Formula 1 Sprint Events Announced
Formula 1 has confirmed an updated calendar for the 2026 season, introducing Sprint events at the Canadian Grand Prix and Singapore for the first time. The six venues selected for Sprint races also include China, Miami, Silverstone, and the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, with Singapore concluding the series.
Key Sprint Venues:
- China: Kicks off the season with a single practice session followed by qualifying and a Saturday Sprint.
- Canada: Hosts its inaugural Sprint in late May, marking consecutive Sprint weekends in North America.
- Silverstone: Returns with its second Sprint event since the format’s introduction in 2021.
- Zandvoort: Will experience its first-ever Sprint, coinciding with the final year of its current contract.
- Singapore: A night race that will have its Sprint during daylight, addressing overtaking challenges on its street circuit.
The current six Sprints will not expand for 2026 due to the introduction of new technical regulations, but discussions indicate a potential increase to as many as 12 Sprints for the 2027 season, including the exploration of reverse grid formats.
F1 President Stefano Domenicali commented, “The F1 Sprint has continued to grow in positive impact and popularity since it was introduced in 2021… with four competitive sessions each weekend, we’re delivering more action for fans.” He emphasized the partnership with Gatorade as a sign of the growing interest in Sprint events.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem noted that driver input will play a crucial role in any future changes to the Sprint format, which currently features a qualifying session and a short race awarding points to the top eight finishers. He affirmed the excitement and entertainment value of the Sprint format while underlining collaboration with teams and promoters to enhance the championship experience.
For the first time since its inception, there will be no Sprint at Interlagos, and the United States Grand Prix will return to the traditional race weekend schedule.
In addition to Sprint updates, the 2026 race start times have been announced, with the Canadian Grand Prix rescheduled to avoid conflicting with the Indianapolis 500, now starting at 1600 ET. This adjustment aims to prevent overlap with the Indy 500’s green flag at 1245 ET.
Conclusion
The confirmation of new Sprint venues and the strategic scheduling for 2026 signify a transformative year for Formula 1, aimed at enhancing competitiveness and viewer engagement.
