Starting from the next edition of F1 Academy, the regulatory changes will include the return of the reverse grid for the top 8 positions during Race 1. The weekend format will remain unchanged compared to the previous season.
With the first race weekend of the third F1 Academy season fast approaching, and for the first time, it will take place in China. Ahead of the new edition, just a few days ago, an important update to the Sporting Regulations of the championship, led by Susie Wolff, was announced: the return of the reverse grid for Race 1, following the format already used in the Sprint Races of Formula 2 and Formula 3.
The top eight positions will be reversed, meaning the drivers who recorded the eight best times in Qualifying will have their grid positions swapped. Points will be awarded up to the eighth place, starting from a maximum of 10 down to a minimum of 1. An additional point will be given to the driver who sets the fastest lap. Despite this change, the race weekend format will not vary from the previous season, with up to two Free Practice sessions, one Qualifying session, and two Races.
Explaining the reasons behind this technical change for the upcoming season, Delphine Biscaye – Competition Manager of F1 Academy – expressed the hope that this change could lead to more exciting races with the opportunity for drivers – who usually qualify between fifth and eighth positions – to showcase their skills as leaders of the pack: “A podium or a victory could be the key to unlocking their full confidence and potential,” said Biscaye. Additionally, this update will help the drivers “develop and prepare for their transition to higher categories, where reverse grids are a constant“.
Photo: F1 Academy.