P1racenews AI automatic summary:
This weekend’s Chinese Grand Prix will host the first of six sprint races scheduled for the 2026 F1 season.
The sprint format will debut at the Chinese Grand Prix this weekend, marking the 13th time it’s being used in F1. Originally introduced in 2021, only three sprint races took place, with the number doubling to six by 2023. This year, a record-breaking six sprint races are scheduled, starting at the Shanghai International Circuit on Saturday. Currently, Max Verstappen leads the fictional sprint standings with a total of 73 points, followed by Carlos Sainz and Sergio Perez. Since 2022, the top eight drivers in each sprint race have been awarded points, ranging from eight points for the winner to one point for eighth place.
