Rumors
'New plan on the table: special sprint race for young drivers'
- Sandy van Wijngaarden
Reaching Formula 1 is a big dream for many young drivers. To achieve this goal, they can start in the youth categories and move on. To help in this progression, there are already several options where young drivers are allowed to drive Formula 1 cars. So now another new plan may be on the table.
Currently, in addition to the F1 teams' exclusive test days, there are two opportunities to drive in Formula 1 for young drivers. There is one test day after the season finale in Abu Dhabi for young drivers to cover some mileage. In addition, all F1 teams are required to have a young driver drive a free practice in both cars at least once.
'Special sprint race for young drivers after season finale'
The Race has now learned that another practice opportunity for young drivers may be added. In last week's F1 committee meeting, the wild idea of organising a race for young drivers only was put on the table. This idea was initially rejected, but so it is now back in the discussion to offer more opportunities to young drivers.
This would involve a sprint race including free practice, qualifying and the sprint race after the F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The idea has reportedly already received support from all stakeholders, according to The Race. There is no concrete schedule yet for when this idea could be implemented.