Grand Prix

F1 Azerbaijan Sprint Shootout: Epic Win or Epic Fail? Fans Weigh In

F1 fans have delivered their verdict on the Azerbaijan sprint shootout.
Lydia Mee|
F1 Azerbaijan Sprint Shootout: Epic Win or Epic Fail? Fans Weigh In
F1 Azerbaijan Sprint Shootout: Epic Win or Epic Fail? Fans Weigh In

F1 fans have been reacting to the first sprint shootout session in Azerbaijan and it's clearly a mixed response. 

The F1 made changes to the sprint race weekend format earlier this week. The first practice session and qualifying to determine the starting grid for the grand prix will take place on Friday. Saturday will host a sprint shootout which is a shorter version of the standard qualifying session, this determines the grid line-up for the sprint race which will be later on Saturday. Finally, the grand prix will go ahead as normal on Sunday. 

One of the big talking points within fans was the rule stating that drivers must use a new set of soft tyres for SQ3. This meant that although Lando Norris got through the the last stage of the session, he was unable to go out as he had already used his soft tyres yesterday. 

"Apparently I’m in a very “ranty” mood this morning but I’m genuinely really annoyed that Lando Norris can’t come out for another lap (yes, I understand the rules) when he’s having such a good weekend"

One fan commented:

"Personally I think the whole sprint thing is a success."

Another pleased fan commented that the new format was "enjoyable". They wrote:

"The Sprint Shootout was actually quite enjoyable... I'd rather that instead of another FP session in all honesty but then again... a return to a Saturday "one-lap" quali session would also be good."

Someone else who was clearly not loving the change, posted:

"Why change it @fia? Its awful #F1Sprint"

To which someone else responded agreeing with them:

"Got to agree. Not sure we saw the point of it. The only good thing was the Baku scenery, looks like a stunning city."
"#F1Sprint Shootout: - Silly that drivers can't take part without new tyres - Timing is about right - This + Sprint is better on terrestrial TV to bring in more casual fans. Can definitely work, but still don't think it's better than reversing champ standings as sprint grid"

Making a good point that it is repetitive from yesterday's qualifying session, another fan posted:

"Wow. The guy that was quickest in qualifying yesterday is still quickest in qualifying today. I’m shocked."

The majority of fans, however, seemed to enjoy more on-track action rather than the second free practice session. Another F1 fan posted:

"Typical Leclerc to get pole and then stick it in the wall. Nice to see Red Bull haven't dominated yet. I'm liking the sprint format so far #azerbaijanGP #F1 #F1Sprint"
Published
Lydia Mee
LYDIA MEE

Lydia is the lead editor of F1 editorial. After following the sport for several years, she was finally able to attend the British Grand Prix in person in 2017. Since then, she's been addicted to not only the racing, but the atmosphere the fans bring to each event. She's a strong advocate for women in motorsport and a more diverse industry. 

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