The racing weekend has finally arrived after a three-week break. The governing board proceeded with their decision to conduct a sprint race, despite several warnings that the modifications to the F1 regular schedule might see Max Verstappen quitting the sport. However, as soon as the World Motor Sports Council approved F1’s most recent plan, the whole F1 community voiced their thoughts. The Dutchman, though, might be astonished by finding out that his best friend is opposing him in this situation.

The inaugural Sprint race format will take place this weekend in Baku. There will now be a total of six sprint races in 2023, as opposed to just three races up until last year. A separate qualifying session will be held for both the sprint and main race, and there will be just one practice session overall. The important thing to remember is that the sprint will no longer have an impact on the main Grand Prix.

We all are aware that Verstappen believes that this format is “not in the DNA of Formula One,” hence he has often threatened F1 to quit the sport if it persists. The Dutchman may now suffer a setback as a result of Lando Norris‘s most recent statement, who is also his best friend.

The British driver predicts that there will be a few small modifications to the format. Besides opposing Max, Norris appreciates having two qualifyings. As per Speedcafe, Lando Norris said, “I’m expecting some little changes here and there, but the majority will be pretty similar.”

Adding further, he said, “I think it’s a better format. I prefer it [by] a long way compared to what we had before. I like the fact you have to qualify twice. I love the format of practice, qualifying on Friday, so the pressure is definitely higher.”

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Everyone is aware of Verstappen’s tough decision-making manner, as evidenced during the Brazilian GP. However, despite his repeated warnings to quit, Formula 1 hasn’t heeded him, so does his opinion change in light of this hasty action by F1?

What does Max Verstappen think about the new Sprint race format that F1 has implemented?

Verstappen has a reputation for being a very tough guy. The Dutchman still stands by his previous statement about sprint races. While admitting that he has no choice but to comply with the new format, Verstappen has expressed his annoyance.

In an interview with Sky Sports, the two-time champion remarked that while he appreciates the governing bodies’ efforts to provide entertainment, he has concerns about the hectic schedules of F1 teams and drivers.

He said, “You have to be okay with it and I love racing in general, but I do feel like you don’t need to really touch anything that is great and I always thought the Sunday was great. Of course, I understand selling more tickets on Friday and Saturday to make every day worth fighting for. But when you do 24, 25 race weekends, I think a good option anyway would be to shorten the weekend.”

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What do you think the drivers’ reaction would be if the F1 kept assigning them such demanding schedules? Do you believe there will be more drivers that become irritated in addition to Max Verstappen?