Understanding the Changes Made in the Revised 2022 F1 Sprint Format

The 2022 season of Formula 1 has already seen some exciting battles. And the excitement takes a leap as this season’s first sprint race is scheduled in Imola. The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix replaced the Chinese Grand Prix last year on the calendar. The wet weather drive at this venue in 2021 will certainly live long in the memories of the fans.

With changes in regulations, the number of sprint races to be held this year was in question. However, the FIA decided to continue with 3 sprint races for the 2022 season. The first takes place in Imola, followed by the Red Bull ring in Austria and the race in Sao Paulo, which will host its second sprint race. Subsequently, there are also minor alterations to the points system for the sprint race.

What are the changes to the sprint race?

Like the 2021 season, the sprint race will be a 100-km dash, and pit stops will be optional. So, it will be an all-out race to attain the pole position for Sunday’s race. Friday will see the qualifying session which will provide the order of the grid for the sprint race on Saturday. There will also only be two practice sessions instead of the usual three.

Meanwhile, the points system awarded for the sprint race witnessed a change. Last year, Formula 1 only awarded points to the top 3 drivers. Now, it sees the top 8 drivers being allocated the points. The driver finishing P1 will get 8 points, followed by 7 to the driver finishing second, and so on.

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The points are also added to the constructors’ and driver’s standings. This change will make the battle much more exciting, without a doubt. Last year also witnessed the driver who finished the sprint race on top receiving the honor of pole position. However, the 2022 season will see the driver who sets the fastest time on Friday qualifying receiving this honor.

The driver finishing on top of the sprint race will start P1 during Sunday’s race. Consequently, with only two practice sessions allotted, the teams will have reduced time to compile data and adjust to the track conditions.

The forecast also suggests there is a possibility of rain during the qualifying. A home race for Ferrari will give them an added boost to perform after a stunning start to the season.

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Ferrari’s Golden Boy Charles Leclerc is the runaway leader, with George Russell and Carlos Sainz behind the Monegasque. Who will come out on top in Imola? Leave your predictions in the comments.