News Summary
- Max Verstappen says he is not a supporter of Formula 1 Sprint races despite understanding their commercial appeal.
- The Red Bull driver expects Monaco’s 2027 Sprint to reproduce the circuit’s familiar overtaking problem.
- Speaking to GRANDE PRÊMIO in Baku, Verstappen said winning a Sprint does not carry the same emotion as winning a Grand Prix.
Max Verstappen has dismissed Formula 1’s decision to expand its Sprint calendar and said winning one of the shorter races does not generate the same emotion as a Grand Prix victory.
F1 will increase the number of Sprint weekends from 6 to 10 in 2027, with Monaco joining the format for the first time. Speaking to GRANDE PRÊMIO reporter Leonid Kliuev in the Baku paddock, Verstappen acknowledged the reasoning behind the expansion but made clear that it does not change his priorities.
“More Sprint races… Personally, I’m not a fan, but I understand the reason behind it,” Verstappen said.
“It also brings more action throughout the weekend. We will take part and try to do our best, but I am always thinking about the main race. That is where my focus is.”
Verstappen expects familiar Monaco problem
Monaco’s inclusion has attracted particular attention because of the circuit’s limited overtaking opportunities.
The 2027 weekend will feature only one practice session before Sprint Qualifying on Friday. The Sprint takes place on Saturday before traditional Grand Prix qualifying, creating two competitive races around the narrow Monte Carlo circuit.
Lando Norris believes the reduced practice time will force drivers to take risks earlier during the Monaco weekend. Verstappen, however, does not expect the format to improve the racing itself.
“The Sprint in Monaco will be the same scenario as the main race,” he said. “You get excited for the start, but then you cannot overtake. I think it is quite predictable. But perhaps Monaco wanted it—I don’t know.”
The Sprint may increase the importance of Friday and offer a second qualifying session, but Verstappen believes the central limitation will remain unchanged once the field starts racing.
Grand Prix remains Verstappen’s priority
Verstappen also rejected the suggestion that the choice of Sprint venues matters greatly to him.
“Honestly, I don’t care where the Sprint races are held,” he continued. “As I said, I take part and try to do my best, but I don’t feel any particular emotion about winning or not winning a Sprint.
“Since I was a child, what I looked forward to was the race, which is normally on Sunday. Sometimes on Saturday,” he added, referring to this weekend’s unusual Azerbaijan GP schedule.
Verstappen’s position contrasts with F1’s continued investment in the format. The championship argues that Sprint weekends increase television audiences and place meaningful track action on all three days.
The 2027 F1 calendar includes Sprints in Bahrain, Australia, Japan, Canada, Monaco, Great Britain, Italy, São Paulo, Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
Monaco will host its first Sprint on June 5, with the Grand Prix following on June 6.
Monaco will host its first Formula 1 Sprint weekend in 2027 (Photo: Rodrigo Ruiz/GRANDE PRÊMIO)
Formula 1 returns this week for the Azerbaijan GP. Practice begins in Baku on Thursday, qualifying takes place on Friday and the Grand Prix starts on Saturday.
FAQ
Does Max Verstappen support F1 Sprint races?
No. Verstappen understands why Formula 1 uses them but says he remains focused on the main Grand Prix.
F1 today: FAQ
Why is the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix on Saturday?
The race takes place on Saturday, September 26, because Sunday is Azerbaijan’s Remembrance Day. The entire programme was moved forward, with practice on Thursday and qualifying on Friday.
What time does the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix start?
The Azerbaijan GP starts at 12:00 UK, 07:00 ET and 15:00 local time on Saturday. It will run for 51 laps around the 6.003km Baku City Circuit.
Can Kimi Antonelli win the 2026 F1 championship in Azerbaijan?
Yes. Antonelli arrives in Baku with an 81-point lead over George Russell, making him mathematically capable of securing the championship. To become champion, he must leave Azerbaijan at least 75 points ahead.
