Mercedes F1 drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell have both expressed opposing views on the concept of reverse grids in recent times.
Lewis Hamilton has changed his views about reverse grids, which are expected to be implemented into Formula One next year.
F1 executives are debating adjustments to the Sprint concept, which will return for the fourth season in 2024. Six events on the 24-race calendar will adopt the format once more, with two races staged over the weekend instead of one.
However, modifications are in the works to make the Sprint races more thrilling. One of the possibilities being discussed is the use of partially reversed grids, in which a specific number of positions are flipped around as a result of Shootout qualifying to set the starting order for the Sprint.
It is now utilized in the Formula 2 and Formula 3 feeder series, where the top ten qualifiers for the Sprint are flipped around and the main race is held as usual.
Hamilton has previously stated his opposition to the use of reverse grids in F1. The British driver told reporters at the 2019 Singapore Grand Prix, “I don’t really know what to say… the people who have proposed it don’t really know what they’re talking about.”
But it appears that his opinion has evolved. Not only does he support the Sprint format overall, but he also appears to be in favor of switching grid positions for the short-form race. Even though it’s not the best of days, he expressed his preference for a single practice session leading directly into qualifying.
We can probably learn. I adore that our schedule isn’t the same three practice sessions followed by the qualifying round and the race. I support the reverse order because my best sprint race to date was when I started last [in Brazil 2021]. If we had the opposite order, though, everyone would simply try to qualify last.”
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