CUT TO THREE SPRINT RACES AMID IMPASSE

Formula 1 bosses are pushing for a compromise solution of hosting just three sprint races in

2022, amid the ongoing dispute over costs.

Discussions to expand to six sprint races this year hit a snag, with the leading teams pushing for greater financial allowances to be made under the cost cap to cover any possible expense from the added races, such as crash damage. The idea of lifting the cost cap does not have support outside F1’s top three squads, which has left talks at a bit of an impasse because a rule change over sprints needs support from eight teams.

Ahead of the 14 February meeting of the F1 Commission, Liberty has put forward a compromise package that will cut back on the idea of having six sprints and instead go for a maximum of three. While F1 remains eager long-term for there to be up to six sprints, it does accept that, with teams facing struggles to get to grips with the new cars in 2022, a halfway house of three would still be good for F1 followers who enjoy the sprints.

It is understood that no decision has yet been made about where the three sprints would take place if the plan is given the green light.