Formula 1 is evaluating the idea of a rookie sprint race to be held after the post-Abu Dhabi Grand Prix tyre test.
As part of a discussion that began at the most recent F1 Commission meeting, series bosses and team principals have been pondering how best to offer further track opportunities to young drivers.
With testing of current cars so restricted, it is felt by senior figures that rookie drivers are not as prepared as they were in the past when more mileage was allowed.
As previously reported by Motorsport.com, an idea to allow rookie wildcard entries to F1 races was rejected because of complications regarding car entries, as there is no scope to allow third cars. It was also thought illogical to have current stars replaced to make way for relatively unknown youngsters.
A further idea is in opening up more practice sessions for rookies, but one more leftfield proposal that is being considered is for a post-season sprint race.
The idea is for a sprint featuring rookie drivers to take place after the single-day test that is due to take place in Abu Dhabi on the Tuesday after the season finale in December.
Under the current regulations, teams must run two cars in the Abu Dhabi test. One of the cars has to be for rookie drivers who have not competed in more than two grands prix, while the other is designated for tyre testing of next year’s rubber by a current driver.
Ahead of the next F1 Commission meeting that is due to take place next month, sporting directors have been asked to consider whether the idea is feasible and how the framework of rules could fit around it – as it would require a change of sporting regulations.
Speaking ahead of the Italian Grand Prix, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali explained that he felt the idea had merit in helping develop young driving talent.
“There is a project on the table, namely the possibility of organising a sprint race for young drivers in Abu Dhabi,” he said.
“We are reflecting on how to give young people the opportunity during the Yas Marina test to shine and gain experience – not only by driving in the test, but also in a competitive context.
“It would certainly help their training, aimed at making them prepared for the next step. We will talk about it in detail by the end of September to understand the feasibility of this idea.”
Oliver Bearman, Haas VF-24
Photo by: Sam Bagnall / Motorsport Images
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