Photo: Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool
The idea of a 'sprint race for rookies,' which has been discussed for several months and backed by many team principals, was dismissed by the F1 Commission.
The rookie sprint race was originally supposed to take place at the Yas Marina Circuit on December 10, the Tuesday following the final race of the F1 season in Abu Dhabi.
The idea was to provide junior drivers more time on the track with current cars since testing opportunities have been limited in recent years to save costs.
At this point, the only chances for rookie drivers to gain experience in the latest cars are the post-season test in Abu Dhabi and a maximum of two FP1 sessions each year. Otherwise, they have to drive cars that are two years old.
Because of that, Formula 1 and FIA came up with a suggestion to hold a sprint race for 10 rookies, which gained enthusiastic support from many team principals at the beginning.
However, at the latest F1 Commission meeting, it was decided that the race will not be held and the idea has been pushed to be reconsidered for a possible launch of the event in 2025.
“The concept of a 'rookie race' to be added to the 2024 post-season test schedule at Abu Dhabi was discussed,” read a statement from the FIA.
“While the concept received widespread support, it was determined that due to timing and organisational constraints, the event would not take place in 2024, and discussions will continue to formulate a potential concept and plan for 2025.”
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