F1 in talks to double sprint calendar as part of radical shake up

F1 has finally confirmed the six rounds of the 2026 season that will host sprint events , after the Dutch Grand Prix Twitter account accidentally leaked the calendar two months ago. As expected, those rounds will be Shanghai, Miami, Montreal, Silverstone, Zandvoort, and Singapore. However, despite recent conversations surrounding increasing the number of sprints across the 24-round schedule, there have been no additions to the 2026 slate. The soon-to-be 11 F1 teams are already facing a complete chassis and power unit regulations overhaul next year, but discussions are ongoing over a potential expansion of the sprint calendar the following season. Currently at six, RacingNews365 understands the championship will not go above 12 rounds (half the schedule) in the first instance, but the exact number it could rise to is currently unclear. Further considerations, such as reverse grids, are due to be central in talks between F1, its teams and drivers and the FIA in the coming months. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has long voiced his support for more competitive sessions and fewer practice hours, and the championship sees higher engagement and audience figures over sprint weekends. There has also been considerable interest from grand prix promoters to host sprints. Let us know how far F1 should expand the sprint calendar by leaving a comment and by voting below in the latest RacingNews365 poll!