Formula 1 is considering an innovative plan to introduce a rookie sprint race after the season finale at Abu Dhabi, according to F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali. This proposal is part of ongoing discussions aimed at providing more track opportunities for young drivers who have limited chances to gain experience due to current testing restrictions.
In recent discussions at the F1 Commission meeting, the idea emerged as a solution to the challenge of preparing rookie drivers adequately. Domenicali explained the rationale behind this move, emphasising the need to give young drivers a platform to gain competitive experience. “There is a project on the table, namely the possibility of organising a sprint race for young drivers in Abu Dhabi,” Domenicali said.
“We are reflecting on how to give young people the opportunity during the Yas Marina test to shine and gain experience—not only by driving in the test, but also in a competitive context.”
The proposed sprint race would take place after the scheduled post-season test in Abu Dhabi, where teams currently run two cars—one for rookie drivers and another for tyre testing with a current driver. This race could serve as a valuable training ground, offering young talents a chance to compete in a real race environment, something that could better prepare them for future F1 challenges.
Despite the potential benefits, the plan faces significant logistical hurdles. Organizing a sprint race after the test would require additional coordination for timing systems, safety measures, and team personnel. Moreover, there are uncertainties about how this race would be broadcasted—whether through regular F1 broadcasters or F1’s own channels.
The proposal also needs to pass through the F1 Commission, with sporting directors tasked with evaluating its feasibility before the next meeting in September. Changes to the sporting regulations would be necessary to accommodate such a race, adding another layer of complexity.
If implemented, this rookie sprint race could be a major opportunity for up-and-coming drivers like Haas’ Oliver Bearman, Alpine’s Jack Doohan, and Mercedes’ Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who will partner with George Russell next season. These drivers, who qualify under the rookie criteria of having participated in fewer than two Grands Prix, would gain invaluable experience ahead of the next season.
While it might be too ambitious to organise such an event for this year, Domenicali hinted that the idea could return in 2025. He also suggested that F1’s sprint race format could expand beyond the current six-per-season, though any increase would likely not occur until 2026.
“There is the possibility in the future, but not in 2025, of increasing the number of weekends,” Domenicali stated.
“We see more and more interest, but obviously, we cannot think of a choice like the one made by MotoGP where every weekend is a sprint. I believe there is space to increase the number of sprints, and we will discuss it by the end of the year.”
