Silverstone confirmed as first sprint qualifying venue at 2021 British GP

Silverstone has confirmed it will be the first venue to host F1’s new sprint qualifying format when the British Grand Prix takes place later this year.

The new addition was announced earlier in the week and will involve a 100km sprint race on Saturday to set the grid for Sunday’s grand prix.

Around the modern Silverstone layout, the 100km race is set to be around 17 laps.

Only the top three from Saturday’s sprint event will score points, with three points handed out to the winner, two to the runner-up and one to the final driver in the top three.

Silverstone was expected to the the first of the three races to stage a sprint qualifying event, with Monza and Interlagos expected to be confirmed at a later date.

“We are incredibly excited that Silverstone fans will be the first to experience the Formula 1 sprint qualifying format at this year’s British Grand Prix,” managing director of Silverstone Stuart Pringle said.

“We have not seen such a major timetable shake up in the sport for years and I appreciate the continued efforts being made by Formula 1 and the FIA to enhance the entertainment on track giving our spectators even more to look forward to this July.

“The Friday and Saturday crowds at Silverstone are arguably the largest on the F1 calendar and, following the live events drought of 2020, this year will be no exception. Given we have very nearly sold out of tickets for Sunday, Saturday now represents a great opportunity for fans to see a Formula 1 race at Silverstone this summer.”

Parc Fermé restrictions will be in place on Friday ahead of qualifying preventing teams from setting up sprint qualifying-specific cars.

“We are excited by this new opportunity that will bring our fans an even more engaging race weekend in 2021,” said Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of F1.

“Seeing the drivers battling it out over three days will be an amazing experience and I am sure the drivers will relish the fight.”