Formula One plans more sprint races in 2027
Chief executive Stefano Domenicali wants to expand sprint races while preserving their scarcity value amid strong fan turnout.
Formula One intends to introduce more sprint races in 2027, with the potential for more than the current six events, according to chief executive Stefano Domenicali. The 2027 calendar has not been revealed, but it is expected to consist of 24 rounds, following a probable 23 races in 2026. Domenicali highlighted that the sprint format contributes to increased Friday and daily attendances during race weekends.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining scarcity value for sprint races, stating that they currently generate higher attendances and stronger daily turnouts.
Flavio Briatore, the boss of Renault-owned Alpine, expressed his support for sprint races at every race weekend, stating that they provide an additional spectacle for spectators. He argued that Friday morning, which currently consists of technical laps, lacks spectator engagement, and that introducing a sprint race would add excitement and give drivers a purpose beyond engineering. Briatore called for more races and sprint events to enhance the overall spectator experience.
The recent fiscal quarter results for Formula One revealed a 38% drop in revenue to $764 million for the period ending June 2026, primarily due to the reduction in the number of races. However, Domenicali also reported that the partnership with Apple for US broadcasts has resulted in a 13% increase in viewership and total hours watched.
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