F1 wants to use 2020 to experiment with the format of its weekends

The format of race weekends in Formula 1, it is one of the many sea serpents that gently undulate in the paddock. Between the semi-inverted grids, the sprint heats, or the qualifying races, we will have read and heard everything. 

However, it would seem that the lines could move next year, if we are to believe the words of Ross Brawn, sporting boss of the discipline.  

« I would like us to try different things in 2020, confided the former team principal Mercedes and technical director Ferrari in an interview given to Sky Sports F1 ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix. 

2020 gives us a stable platform, the single-seaters do not change a lot so we have a great opportunity to make some changes in one or two races. 

The current format is good but perhaps a sprint round could prove interesting, as could changes to the qualifying process. I think the teams are ready to include new features on this Saturday ». 

The duration of F1 meetings has often been cited as one of the levers for potential change, with some pushing for the program to be more compact, or even condensed over just two days, even more so with the prospect of a copious calendar of 22 meetings. you on the horizon. 

« We want to see cars on track on Friday because it’s an important day for promoters, Brawn replied. But there are ways to reduce the length of the weekend from an operational point of view. Today, the teams arrive on the circuit on Tuesday, even Monday. Perhaps we could introduce greater restrictions on the closed park. 

Previously, we showed up on Thursday afternoon, we installed the cars in the garage, and we raced. Perhaps we could also reduce the length of the sessions on Friday, so that the stables could prepare on Friday morning ». 

Questioned on the subject during the traditional FIA press conference on Friday, the various team bosses present were rather open on the question while expressing some doubts.

« There's no harm in trying things, getting feedback from fans, and seeing if it spices up the show, declared Otmar Szafnauer for Racing Point. We still have to discuss it between Monza and Singapore.” 

Guenther Steiner, for his part, is worried about seeing costs soar. “ We must think about the subject with caution, specified the main team of the Haas F1 Team. We haven't yet discussed the details and it's often when you refine things that possible pitfalls become apparent. If you have two races, you need double the coins. What about engine parts allowances? » 

« We could be more creative and in tune with the times, concluded Cyril Abiteboul. We must adapt to new ways of consuming sport. Fans no longer want to spend two hours in front of their television on Sunday afternoon. I also find that the Friday sessions, played in front of empty stands, are wasted opportunities. ». 

Afterwards, if F1 succeeds in its transformation in 2021, perhaps the two hours that a Grand Prix lasts will pass at full speed...