Alonso criticises teams’ influence over the Sprint format

Alonso has hit out at F1 teams and their influence over the Sprint format, which he believes could be rethought. He said the format, intended to make the weekend more entertaining, deserves a different approach.

“When we organise a sprint race on a circuit like this, should we rethink the race format and give it a different touch, rather than sticking to the usual formula? I don’t know. Probably,” he said.

The driver believes teams can block changes. “The problem is that the teams have all the power to vote against any idea. Whenever an idea or an innovative format comes up, the leading teams find out straight away because they want it to be as boring as possible and so consolidate the points,” he said, referring to the points awarded in the Sprint.

The season has also been particularly difficult and widely criticised, according to the assessment reported. Alonso believes reform should be addressed “for the good of the sport” as part of a future agreement. He said an authority above the teams could help, since teams will always pursue their own interests.

The two-time F1 world champion did not, however, want to spell out his proposals. Asked about possibilities such as a reverse grid or shorter races, he replied: “I can’t comment on that. Only when I retire. I hope I can change that.”