F1 to compromise on 2022 sprint schedule

F1 2022

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F1 to compromise on 2022 sprint schedule

Three GPs to host rather than six

Ian Parkes

Thursday 3 February 2022 11:36 Updated: 11:43

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F1 is set to reduce the number of sprint races this year in a compromise with the teams faced with the added complication of the new regulations, GPFans can confirm.

Following the relative success of the three trial events at the British, Italian and São Paulo Grands Prix last season, F1 revealed it planned to double that number across its record-breaking 23-race calendar for the forthcoming campaign.

Behind the scenes towards the end of last year and over the winter break, however, F1 has been fighting a battle from a rebellious group determined for an increase in the budget cap in order to accommodate the additional racing.

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It is understood the teams concerned are Mercedes, Red Bull and Ferrari.

The trio is seeking a rise in the cap that this year stands at $140million, a $5m drop from the introductory figure from last season.

GPFans understands there is considerable pushback from F1, the FIA and the seven other teams who are all determined to avoid a budget cap increase.

There is frustration at the fact Mercedes, Red Bull and Ferrari would again appear to be putting themselves first rather than the sport as a whole, and especially the fans.

By way of an interim solution ahead of a hoped-for expansion of the number of sprint races for 2023, and giving due consideration to the financial impact of the new aerodynamic regulations, the sprint programme is poised to be cut.

Discussions remain ongoing, with the details likely to be agreed at the forthcoming meeting of the F1 Commission, that involves F1, the FIA and the 10 teams.

As part of the sprint agenda, talks are also focusing on the pole position debate and the number of points awarded from each race.

Last season there was criticism that the winner of the sprint was awarded pole for the grand prix and it was added to the record books rather than via traditional one-lap qualifying.

There was also disapproval of the fact only the top three were awarded points. The format was three for the winner, two for the runner-up and one for third.

There is a belief at least the top five or six should claim points in an effort to increase the incentive for racing.