F1 Sprint Races in 2025: Format, Schedule, and Key Changes Explained

A detailed breakdown of the 2025 F1 sprint race format, schedule, and points system, including comparisons to previous years.

The 2025 Formula 1 season will feature six sprint races, continuing the format introduced in 2024. These high-intensity events are designed to add excitement to race weekends while testing driver skill in shorter, competitive sessions.

2025 F1 Sprint Race Format

  • Friday Schedule:
    • Single free practice session
    • Sprint qualifying (SQ1, SQ2, SQ3)
  • Saturday Action:
    • Sprint race (100km)
    • Main Grand Prix qualifying
  • Sunday:
    • Traditional Grand Prix race (unchanged format)

Sprint Qualifying Details:

  1. SQ1: 12-minute session, slowest 5 cars eliminated
  2. SQ2: 10-minute session, next 5 slowest eliminated
  3. SQ3: 8-minute session to determine top 10 grid positions

Sprint Race Points System:

Position Points
1st 8
2nd 7
3rd 6
4th 5
5th 4
6th 3
7th 2
8th 1

2025 Sprint Race Schedule

  1. March 21-23: Chinese Grand Prix (Shanghai)
  2. May 2-4: Miami Grand Prix
  3. July 25-27: Belgian Grand Prix (Spa-Francorchamps)
  4. October 17-19: United States Grand Prix (Austin)
  5. November 7-9: São Paulo Grand Prix (Interlagos)
  6. November 28-30: Qatar Grand Prix (Lusail)

Evolution of F1 Sprint Races

  • 2021: Original format with Friday qualifying setting sprint grid
  • 2023: Standalone Saturday sprint events
  • 2024-2025: Current optimized format with Friday sprint qualifying

The 2025 sprint races promise to deliver intense competition as drivers battle for crucial championship points in these action-packed mini-races.

What to Read Next

Lance Stroll Returns to Canadian GP: A Homecoming to Watch
Formula 1

Lance Stroll Returns to Canadian GP: A Homecoming to Watch

Lance Stroll is set to make a thrilling return at the Canadian Grand Prix after recovering from injury, ready to race in front of his home crowd.

Frederic Vasseur Extends Ferrari Contract: A New Era of Leadership in Formula 1
Formula 1

Frederic Vasseur Extends Ferrari Contract: A New Era of Leadership in Formula 1

Frederic Vasseur signs a multi-year contract with Ferrari, reinforcing his role as Team Principal and aiming for future Formula 1 successes.

Formula 1 Championship Hinges on Precision: Norris Emphasizes Minimizing Mistakes
Formula 1

Formula 1 Championship Hinges on Precision: Norris Emphasizes Minimizing Mistakes

Lando Norris discusses how minimizing mistakes will be crucial in deciding the Formula 1 championship, as he prepares for the Hungarian Grand Prix.

Zak Brown Reacts to Christian Horner's Red Bull Exit: A New Era in Formula 1
Formula 1

Zak Brown Reacts to Christian Horner's Red Bull Exit: A New Era in Formula 1

McLaren CEO Zak Brown shares his thoughts on Christian Horner's departure from Red Bull, highlighting the ongoing drama in Formula 1.

Rethinking Wet Race Strategies in Formula 1: FIA's Approach Under Scrutiny
Formula 1

Rethinking Wet Race Strategies in Formula 1: FIA's Approach Under Scrutiny

The FIA's conservative approach to wet race conditions in Formula 1 is under scrutiny after the Belgian Grand Prix. This article explores the need for recalibration in race strategies to balance safety and driver performance.

Lewis Hamilton's Strategic Push: Reviving Ferrari's Glory in Formula 1
Formula 1

Lewis Hamilton's Strategic Push: Reviving Ferrari's Glory in Formula 1

Lewis Hamilton intensifies efforts to transform Ferrari into championship contenders, focusing on strategic improvements and team dynamics.

Formula 1's Ambitious Roadmap to Net Zero by 2030: Innovations and Sustainability Milestones
Formula 1

Formula 1's Ambitious Roadmap to Net Zero by 2030: Innovations and Sustainability Milestones

Formula 1 is on track to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030, showcasing significant progress through innovative sustainability strategies and eco-friendly initiatives.

Max Verstappen Assures Red Bull Future Unaffected by Horner's Departure
Formula 1

Max Verstappen Assures Red Bull Future Unaffected by Horner's Departure

Max Verstappen confirms Christian Horner's exit from Red Bull does not influence his future with the team, as he focuses on improving car performance.

Christian Horner's Departure Shakes Red Bull F1: A New Era Begins
Formula 1

Christian Horner's Departure Shakes Red Bull F1: A New Era Begins

Red Bull F1 parts ways with Christian Horner after 20 years, marking a significant shift in the team's leadership and future direction.

James Vowles Extends Leadership at Williams with Long-Term Contract
Formula 1

James Vowles Extends Leadership at Williams with Long-Term Contract

James Vowles reaffirms his commitment to Williams F1 with a new long-term contract, aiming to elevate the team's performance in upcoming seasons.

Carlos Sainz's Influence on Alex Albon's Rise in Formula 1
Formula 1

Carlos Sainz's Influence on Alex Albon's Rise in Formula 1

Explore how Carlos Sainz has impacted Alex Albon's performance and image in Formula 1, highlighting their dynamic at Williams.

Tim Mayer Announces Candidacy for FIA Presidency: A New Era for Motorsport Governance
Formula 1

Tim Mayer Announces Candidacy for FIA Presidency: A New Era for Motorsport Governance

Tim Mayer, a seasoned motorsport official, announces his candidacy for the FIA presidency, challenging incumbent Mohammed Ben Sulayem in a bid to reshape the future of motorsport governance.

Nico Hulkenberg's Historic Podium: A Triumph After 239 Races
Formula 1

Nico Hulkenberg's Historic Podium: A Triumph After 239 Races

Nico Hulkenberg achieves his first F1 podium at the British Grand Prix after 239 races, marking a historic moment in his career.

Carlos Sainz Opts Out of FIA Presidency Race to Focus on Dakar Rally
Formula 1

Carlos Sainz Opts Out of FIA Presidency Race to Focus on Dakar Rally

Rally legend Carlos Sainz withdraws from the FIA presidency race, prioritizing his preparation for the Dakar Rally and commitment to Ford.

The Fall of Christian Horner: Inside Red Bull's Shocking Leadership Change
Formula 1

The Fall of Christian Horner: Inside Red Bull's Shocking Leadership Change

Explore the dramatic events leading to Christian Horner's departure from Red Bull and its impact on the team's future in Formula 1.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.