F1 Sprint 2026: How Does It Work at Dutch GP?

Formula 1's sprint format returns this weekend at the Dutch Grand Prix. It marks the fifth of six sprint races scheduled for the 2026 season, taking place at Zandvoort from August 21-23.

Interestingly, this will be the first time Zandvoort hosts a sprint race since the format was introduced in 2021. The Dutch venue becomes the 13th circuit to stage a sprint event.

How Does the Sprint Format Work?

Sprint qualifying takes place after one hour of practice on Friday. Just like regular qualifying, it features three sessions: SQ1, SQ2, and SQ3, lasting 12, 10, and 8 minutes respectively.

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The six slowest drivers are eliminated in SQ1 and SQ2, leaving the top 10 to battle for pole position in SQ3. The sprint race itself is held on Saturday over 100km, typically lasting around 30 minutes.

Points are awarded to the top eight finishers on an 8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1 scale. No extra points are given for pole or fastest lap.

2026 Sprint Circuits

China and Miami host the format for the third consecutive year, while Canada, Zandvoort, and Singapore stage their first sprint races. Silverstone returns to the sprint calendar for the first time since hosting the inaugural event in 2021.

The most successful driver in sprint history is Max Verstappen, with an impressive 13 wins. This weekend, Zandvoort will be the stage where the reigning champion aims to extend his dominance in front of his home crowd.

With the sprint format adding more action, the Formula 1 season is set to become even more competitive. Will Verstappen dominate again at his home sprint? We'll find out soon.