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F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali is considering introducing reverse-grid rules in the 2025 season, potentially affecting top drivers like Max Verstappen and Lando Norris.
This concept, which is already used in Formula Two (F2) and Formula Three (F3), involves reversing the starting positions of drivers based on their qualifying results.
The idea is intended to add more excitement and unpredictability to the races, but it has sparked controversy.
In a recent sprint race in Austria, Verstappen and Norris started from the front row, but under the proposed reverse-grid rules, they would have begun the race from the back.
Domenicali believes that this format could inject more action into the sport, especially during the six sprint races scheduled for the 2025 season.
While some sprint races have delivered thrilling moments, others have been less engaging due to a lack of significant tyre strategies and overtaking opportunities, which are key elements of traditional Grand Prix racing.
Domenicali is open to discussing the reverse-grid idea further, emphasizing the need to keep the sport interesting for fans. He argued that the format could produce exciting races, although some might see it as “fake racing
.” He remains intrigued by the potential for this format to create more overtaking opportunities and dynamic races.
However, not all drivers are on board with the idea. Verstappen, for instance, has expressed his disinterest in changing the current race weekend format, preferring the traditional structure.
He believes that the existing format is sufficient and doesn’t see the need for reverse grids.
The proposal raises several concerns. For example, flipping the entire grid could make it nearly impossible for the pole-sitter to secure significant points, especially on tracks where overtaking is difficult.
Alternatively, if only the top 10 positions are reversed, as in F2, the drivers starting in positions 11 to 20 might have little incentive to push hard, knowing they are unlikely to earn substantial points.
This could lead to a lack of competition in the middle and lower parts of the grid, diminishing the overall excitement of the race.
while reverse-grid races could create memorable moments for fans, they also present challenges that need careful consideration.
The debate over whether to implement this format in Formula 1 will likely continue as the sport seeks to balance excitement with fairness and competition.
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