Formula One fans in Britain have something new to look forward to next season.
Silverstone is set to host its first sprint race since 2021, as part of the six-round sprint schedule confirmed for 2026.
A Global Sprint Line-Up
Joining Silverstone on the sprint calendar will be Shanghai, Miami, Montreal, Zandvoort, and Singapore.
That means fans across Asia, North America, and Europe will all get a taste of the shorter, action-packed format.
Silverstone was the first track ever to stage a sprint race back in 2021, but it hasn’t been on the schedule since.
Now, the iconic British Grand Prix — which runs the first weekend of July — will once again feature the extra Saturday showdown.
More Sprints on the Horizon
F1 bosses aren’t stopping there. Talks are already underway with the FIA, teams, and drivers about expanding the number of sprint races to as many as 12 from 2027.
Data suggests sprints are a hit with audiences, with viewership averaging 10 percent higher compared to regular weekends.
There are even whispers of experimenting with new formats, including the possibility of reverse grids to shake up the racing order.
Why Sprints Are Popular
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali praised the sprint format for adding more excitement to race weekends.
“The F1 sprint has continued to grow in positive impact and popularity since it was introduced in 2021,” he explained.
Unlike traditional race weekends, sprint events deliver four competitive sessions instead of two.
That means more track action for fans, TV audiences, and promoters — and more chances for drivers to shine.
A New Era in 2026
The upcoming 2026 season already promises change, with new regulations being introduced.
Domenicali believes adding fresh sprint venues such as Montreal, Zandvoort, and Singapore will only fuel the drama and unpredictability on track.
Sprint Winners So Far
The history books show Max Verstappen as the king of the sprints.
He won the very first one at Silverstone in 2021 and has gone on to claim 12 of the 21 sprints held so far.
Other names have also had their moments: Valtteri Bottas, Oscar Piastri, and Lando Norris each have two sprint wins, while George Russell, Sergio Perez, and Lewis Hamilton have all taken one apiece.
Looking Ahead
For fans, Silverstone’s sprint return feels like a homecoming.
With the potential for even more sprints and format experiments in the future, Formula One looks ready to keep pushing the limits of excitement.