For most F1 fans, a reversal of the grid on sprint weekends is the worst idea ever. But looking at it from a different perspective, there is no harm in giving it a shot. And surprisingly, the F1 boss, Stefano Domenicali is once again thinking about reversing the grid. So, we could say the traditionalists are up for a treat. How will the fans, teams, and pundits perceive the plan? This remains a mystery.

Sprint races debuted at Silverstone in 2021 with only four events that year. Though the format was initially complex, it was simplified. With six sprints scheduled for 2024 and Stefano Domenicali aiming for eight by 2025. While many drivers find the extra races stressful, fans are likely to accept the increase. However, Domenicali’s plan to rotate half the starting grid, inspired by Formula 2 and 3 and echoing Flavio Briatore‘s past ideas, could stir controversy.

The viewers never liked the idea. The reactions among fans on social media were and still are consistently clear: “This does not correspond to the performance-oriented nature of Formula 1, it is too artificial.” However, Stephano Domenicali has repeatedly said: “We have to remain open to everything. If something can be used for entertainment, then we should think about it. In the beginning, there was a lot of skepticism about the sprints too, but today they are accepted.” 

However, fans do not have to worry about this for now. The procedure for implementation is long and arduous. Domenicali alone can’t do anything. The idea needs to have the approval of the governing bodies, teams, and engine manufacturers. Meanwhile, the concept’s approval isn’t guaranteed. So, despite having a desire to entertain the supporters, Stefano Domenicali has to go through a fixed procedure.

Stefano Domenicali seems determined with his masterplan

The 2024 F1 calendar is hectic. Twenty-four races isn’t a matter of joke. F1 could also lose its uniqueness due to the menacing schedule. Moreover, drivers could experience unprecedented fatigue. But, Stefano Domenicali wants to increase the number of sprint races across the year! He believes they provide more entertainment. Since there are less number of laps, the battles are fierce. I think that we are not in a position to say that we’re going to be like MotoGP, for example, with a full race calendar situation of sprints. But there is a margin to grow, maybe for one-third of the calendar. That could be a possibility of course,” the CEO stated.

Domenicali is more determined than ever to implement F2 and F3-like settings for F1. He added: “We can once again discuss if there is the need to reverse the grid, or half of the grid, like what F2 and F3 are doing…I would say, why not? It’s a lot of action. It is overtaking. You’re fighting for points.” Concluding his statement, the F1 CEO talked about the critics: “Some people can say, ‘Oh, it is a fake way of racing.’ Fake? There is nothing fake related to what you believe is the right format to produce great action. So I would be interested to discuss that again.”

It all comes down to keeping an open mind. Stefano Domenicali’s vision might look and sound complicated for now, but what if it works? It would be interesting to see the top 10 starting from the back of the grid. The battles could be more intense and entertainment would surely be top-notch. The main fight would be for the midfield teams because they’d have to defend themselves from the likes of Max Verstappen and Lando Norris. It’s tough to predict what the races would be like under the new provision, but it would be worth trying, don’t you think? Share your take in the comments below.