Christian Horner demands F1 rule changes as Red Bull chief warns of “consequences”
For the 2024 season, changes to the Formula 1 Sprint format are being considered, and Christian Horner, the principal of Red Bull team, is one of those who would very much welcome that conclusion.
Changes to the “underwhelming” Formula 1 Sprint format are what Christian Horner wants.
On Friday, the F1 Commission declared that starting with the upcoming season, the weekends during which the format is employed will be adjusted. The precise modifications, however, are still up for debate and will be covered at the following conference in January.
A new weekend routine is most likely in store. According to Mirror Sport, executives are thinking of shifting Sprints to Friday and rescheduling the Grand Prix’s qualifying to take place on Saturday of those alternate weeks.
It’s also possible to make other adjustments, including modifying the parc ferme regulations to give teams more freedom to adjust setups. Furthermore, introducing reverse-grid sprint races, a la Formula 2, might be a more radical and divisive step.
CEO of Red Bull Horner is certain that a change is required. “I believe it’s evident that the Sprints need to change a little bit. I can see the idea of having activity on all three days, which is interesting to the promoter and the fans. However, I believe that some of the sprints have been a little lackluster. The format is similar to receiving a medal for a lengthy run, with no pit stops and a tendency to remain in grid order.
“I believe that a little more racing can be added, but you have to consider the implications first—what would happen, for example, if the grid were reversed, points were at stake, etc. Therefore, I believe that it needs to be worked on a little bit more in the athletic forum. Without a doubt, early in the new year, we’ll convene at the Commission’s next meeting to finalize a format.
“It is imperative, in my opinion, that the next move we take be one that is set in stone for an extended duration. This Sprint idea is a novel one that has been presented. While it is highly unpopular with some traditionalists, it is highly popular in other places. Whatever it becomes, in my opinion, has to remain steady over an extended length of time.
“I believe that in order to determine what the audience truly wants, fan feedback will be extremely important. Do they find the Sprint format enjoyable as it is? If we are going to have a Sprint race, do they really want to see a little more racing? If that’s the case, how will we distribute the points if we take that route? How can teams and drivers be motivated? Thus, it is related to a wide range of themes. But ‘What do the supporters want?’ is the most fundamentally crucial question.”
Principal of the Haas team Guenther Steiner is comfortable with the trial-and-error process, while Horner is reluctant to keep experimenting with the format.
“I think the Sprint weekend is very successful for the sport in general,” he stated. Viewership is increasing, and people seem to appreciate it, but you should always strive for improvement because it’s not quite right.
“I believe we are on the right route as long as we continue to go forward, improve things, and try new things. Not being scared to try new things and, in the event that the adjustments don’t work, to take a different approach or go back.”
