F1 Sprint Shootout: A Second Qualifying Session

 

In 2023, the format for Sprint weekends in Formula 1 will undergo a change. They'll be introducing the Sprint Shootout, a second qualifying session, which will be included in the schedule.

This weekend's Azerbaijan Grand Prix marks the debut of the new racing format. The F1 Commission and World Motor Sport Council approved the new format, which will only be utilized during the six Sprint weekends scheduled for this season.

In 2021, when Sprint weekends were introduced in F1, the format was to have a qualifying session on Friday to set the grid for Saturday's shortened race. The result of the race would then determine the order for Sunday's Grand Prix.

The revised timetable involves using Friday's qualifying session to determine the starting lineup for Sunday's race. On Saturday, a separate double sprint shootout event will take place, which will serve as the basis for deciding the order in which drivers will participate in the shortened 100km race that takes place afterward.

New Sprint weekend format

Friday
Practice
Qualifying for Sunday's Grand Prix

Saturday
Sprint Shootout
F1 Sprint

Sunday
Grand Prix