The F1 race format in 2026 involves a sprint race, which is a shorter version of the traditional Grand Prix. The sprint race is held on a Saturday, and it determines the starting grid for the main Grand Prix on Sunday.
The sprint race is a 100-kilometer event, with the drivers competing in a single lap around the circuit. The driver who crosses the finish line first in the sprint race earns the pole position for the main Grand Prix. The sprint race is a standalone event, and it does not affect the overall championship standings.
The main Grand Prix is still the main event, with the drivers competing over a full distance. The driver who accumulates the most points over the course of the season is crowned the F1 World Champion. The sprint race format is designed to add an extra layer of excitement to the weekend, with the drivers competing in a high-stakes, high-reward event.