P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren CEO Zak Brown has proposed the implementation of mandatory pit stops in Sprint races to counter the continued criticism
Since its introduction in 2021, the Sprint schedule has faced continuous criticism due to lackluster races and a predictable performance trend. Modifications to the format have been approved by the F1 Commission for the next season, with rumors of moving Sprint qualifying to Friday and considering a grid reversal. Max Verstappen, the reigning champion, has expressed his dissatisfaction with the format, while McLaren CEO Zak Brown believes changes are needed to make Sprint races more exciting without overshadowing the Sunday grand prix. Brown suggests implementing mandatory pit stops and introducing super soft tires that degrade halfway through the race to add strategy. The Sprint format will be present at six events in the 2024 season, including Miami, China, Austin, Austria, Brazil, and Qatar.
