What is F1 Sprint? Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to host Sprint Race in 2027

Formula 1 has announced the introduction of a Sprint format for the 2027 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, expanding beyond the six races staged in 2026. This new addition to the weekend's schedule will push the circuit at Yas Island for the first time since the format's inception in 2021.

The Sprint race will occur on Saturday, with a separate Friday qualifying round determining drivers' starting positions. Unlike the main Grand Prix, Sprint points will contribute to the drivers' championship standings. Drivers earn points based on their final Sprint position, similar to the main race.

Introduced in 2021, the Sprint format has primarily been used in junior single-seater series such as Formula 2. However, its debut at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marks a significant step for the sport. Mercedes' George Russell leads the 2026 standings with three wins, while his teammate Kimi Antinelli and Lando Norris each have one.

The Sprint race covers approximately 100km, without a mandatory pit stop. Any driver who pits will be disqualified. The Qualifying rounds consist of three segments: SQ1 (12 minutes), SQ2 (10 minutes), and SQ3 (8 minutes), with specific tyre allocations for each. Sprint Qualifying differs from regular Qualifying, as tyre changes are not permitted and drivers must start with a set of medium tyres in SQ1 and SQ2, while a set of soft tyres is mandatory in SQ3.