Sprint format ‘too expensive’ for Montreal
Canadian GP promoter Francois Dumontier says Montreal will not be hosting a Formula 1 âsprintâ race weekend anytime soon.
He told Le Journal de Montreal that the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve was actually all lined up to be F1âs very first sprint weekend in 2020 – until the covid pandemic forced the eventâs cancellation.
The newspaper claims Liberty Media now charges promoters $4 million extra for the privilege of the extra action of a sprint format event.
“We had to organise the first one, but now itâs too expensive,” promoter Dumontier confirmed. “We wonder if itâs worth it.
“I am actually passionate about our current formula with free practice, qualifying and the race,” he insisted. “Itâs traditional, but itâs the right one.”
He also questions F1âs argument that the sprint format offers spectators more action per weekend.
“In fact,” said Dumontier, “the (sprint) sessions are shorter.”