The F1 sprint race format presented the sport in a new light to many ardent fans across the globe. The format entertained the viewers on all three days of the F1 weekend. The F1 Managing Director of Motor Sports, Ross Brawn, had mentioned that there might be six sprint races in 2022. Recent speculations suggest that one of them might be in the home country of Max Verstappen.
Dutch journalist Erik Van Haren mentioned Zandvoort might hold a sprint race in the 2022 season.
“The talks about the sprint races are still ongoing. Ultimately, at least eight of the ten teams must agree to the plans. Still haggling about the amount of extra amount above the budget ceiling. F1 setup is therefore 6 sprint races (23 races in total), with Zandvoort as a candidate,” said the Dutch journalist.
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The sport returned to the iconic circuit in the 2021 season. The race provided one of the best atmospheres of the season. If it hosts the sprint race next season, we can safely expect more raucous Max Verstappen supporters to come to the race.
WATCH STORY: What Are Sprint Races & Where Will They Be Held?
All the fans wanted to see me win: Max Verstappen
Max Verstappen won his home race on his way to win his first world championship. The Red Bull driver had enormous pressure in Zandvoort but calmly dispatched everyone to win his home race.
“All the fans wanted to see me win, but the fight against Mercedes was so close, it was unbelievable,” said Verstappen on his Zandvoort victory.
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While Max was humble about his awesome win in Dutch GP, Red Bull team boss Christian Horner actually indicated how much pressure was on the driver. But he stated he was amazed at how Max handled all the praise.
“It felt like we were in a nightclub for three days – 100,000 beer-loving fans every day. On the starting grid, I could hardly hear my own words. Your fans were so loud. I looked into your eyes and realized that you are in your own world. I caught myself thinking: How can he just block it all out?” said Horner.
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Well, it would be a treat to see a sprint race at the Zandvoort circuit. But let’s wait for the confirmed list of countries picked for the six sprint races in the 2022 season by F1.