The first sprint race is scheduled for this weekend in Formula 1. The Grand Prix of China is the first this season. Formula 1 has changed the format of sprint races. Read here exactly what the weekend will look like.

The ‘sprint race format’ was adjusted last season due to criticism about the format. In any case, this year it means that there will be a first free practice on Friday, which will be followed a few hours later by qualifying for the sprint race.

On Saturday the drivers start with the sprint race. Later in the day there is qualifying for the ‘real’ race on Sunday. Drivers only get one free practice on Friday to explore the track and practice for the sprint race. VT2 and VT3 will therefore not be held.

The difference with previous years: qualifying for the race on Sunday now takes place on Saturday after the sprint race. Previously, qualifying for the race was on Friday.

What exactly does the sprint race entail?

The sprint race on Saturday is over 100 kilometers and lasts about 30 minutes, with a maximum extension of one hour. The sprint shootout, which will be held on Friday, determines the starting grid for the sprint race. In the sprint race, drivers can earn points for the World Championship standings.

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The shootout uses the same format of the traditional qualifying. This therefore consists of three parts. The session times are somewhat shorter: Q1 lasts twelve minutes, Q2 ten minutes and Q3 eight minutes.