F1 reverse-grids: Debate continues over whether shake-up required

Bosses of Silverstone and F1 itself on the prospect of reverse-grid races to replace qualifying at second Austrian and British rounds

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F1 chairman Chase Carey and Silverstone managing director Stuart Pringle discuss the news that Silverstone is set to host two Grands Prix in August for the revised 2020 Formula 1 season

Silverstone boss Stuart Pringle believes it is too soon to introduce reverse-grid races this season at events including his circuit’s second event, but has backed F1’s plans to continue looking at ways to shake up the spectacle.

Fresh talks have taken place between F1 chiefs and teams about the possibility of turning qualifying into a reverse-grid sprint races at select events – in this case for the unprecedented second grands prix at Austria and Silverstone when the delayed season begins.

However, the concept has again failed to carry sufficient support, with Mercedes one team who remain unconvinced by the idea.

Asked if he would have welcomed a reverse-championship Saturday race at Silverstone, Pringle told Sky Sports News: “I don’t think it would be appropriate this season because everybody set off on a championship battle knowing what the format was.

“But I don’t think it’s a no for the future and I know that Formula 1 has put a lot of time in looking at the quality of the show and the quality of the racing and what needs to be done.”

Pointing out that starting with the fastest cars at the back of the grid is not without precedent in motorsport, with such events taking place in England before the world championship began, Pringle added: “There are probably reasons why that might be a challenge in this day and age.

“But everything should be explored, just not in the middle of the season.”

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