Silverstone is “incredibly excited” to be the first to trial Formula 1’s new Sprint Qualifying format later this year.
On Monday, after months of talks, the F1 Commission unanimously voted to adopt the new weekend schedule for three races in 2021, two in Europe and one elsewhere.
Under the new format, a normal qualifying session will take place on Friday to decide the grid for Saturday’s 100km sprint race, with the top three from the sprint race also scoring points (1st = 3, 2nd = 2, 3rd = 1).
The full results of that race determine the starting order for Sunday’s main Grand Prix, and its first test will be a tough one in front of one of the most vocal F1 fan bases in the world.
“We are incredibly excited that Silverstone fans will be the first to experience the Formula 1 sprint qualifying format at this year’s British Grand Prix,” managing director Stuart Pringle said in a statement.
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“We have not seen such a major timetable shake-up in the sport for years and I appreciate the continued efforts being made by Formula 1 and the FIA to enhance the entertainment on track giving our spectators even more to look forward to this July.”
After hosting two races behind closed doors last year, Silverstone is targeting a full capacity crowd this summer, as the UK enjoys one of the strongest vaccination programs against Covid-19.
“The Friday and Saturday crowds at Silverstone are arguably the largest on the F1 calendar and, following the live events drought of 2020, this year will be no exception,” Pringle added.
“Given we have very nearly sold out of tickets for Sunday, Saturday now represents a great opportunity for fans to see a Formula 1 race at Silverstone this summer.”
The Italian and Brazilian GPs are the two other races currently tipped to use the Sprint Qualifying format this season.