Stefano Domenicali introduces a Rookie Sprint in Abu Dhabi for 2025, spotlighting fresh F1 talent.
Recently, Stefano Domenicali proposed a post-season Rookie Sprint in Abu Dhabi. The F1 CEO aims to spotlight newcomers with an initial non-championship Formula 1 race. Teams are supportive, given adequate preparation.
“Twenty cars would require additional planning,” stated Andy Stevenson, Aston Martin team manager. “A race with 20 cars wouldn’t really be feasible before 2025 at the earliest.”
Beat Zehnder, Sauber’s sporting director, mentioned that such an event would need to be financially viable for broadcasters, as it would necessitate extra coverage: “Without media interest, such a race holds little appeal.”
However, some teams are in favor of the idea, set for discussion in a meeting next week. This includes Haas F1, per director Ayao Komatsu: “We all have to stay in Abu Dhabi anyway for tire testing.”
“The winners would probably rather celebrate and the losers go home as soon as possible, but an additional race for rookies would be a challenge worth staying for.”
Among the drivers, George Russell showed enthusiasm. The Mercedes F1 driver and GPDA director thinks it’s a good idea.
“Actually, I like the idea, to be honest,” Russell stated. “I always have mixed feelings about the FP1 sessions for rookies. Without substantial F1 test experience, it’s a real challenge. I remember my first FP1 with Force India in Sao Paulo.”
“I had only done two days of F1 testing before that, I had never been to Sao Paulo, and it felt like being thrown in at the deep end and closely watched during those two, three laps you do with a brand-new set of tires.”
“But it’s an opportunity for rookie drivers to have a full day of testing, then directly compete in a Sprint race weekend. I think it’s a good idea.”
Max Verstappen is more ambivalent, largely due to timing: “I don’t know. I don’t think everyone is excited after the last race. Then to race again on Tuesday… I mean, if you want to give rookies a chance, just put them in the car.”
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2025 Approved for F1 Rookie Sprint Debut 2025 Approved for F1 Rookie Sprint Debut
