During the Shanghai race, Formula 1 tried out a new format called a sprint. This meant teams could make some changes to their cars between the regular qualifying session and the sprint race on Saturday. The idea was to make things more exciting.
Teams thought they could try out some different setups, especially for cars starting further back on the grid. But in reality, they found they couldn’t change too much. Tom McCullough from Aston Martin said, “You can’t really make too big a change compared to the main race.”
McCullough also said the changes teams made for the sprint race in China were bigger than usual. This was because the track in Shanghai was different, and teams didn’t have much data about how their cars would perform there.
He explained, “We all simulated and prepared, [and] the track grip itself was maybe worse.” This meant teams had to figure things out as they went along.
Nico Hulkenberg from Haas had a tough time with his car’s setup during the sprint race. His setup actually made the car worse, and he ended up finishing last. But Haas was able to fix things for the main race, and Hulkenberg scored a point.
Andrea Stella from McLaren said teams might use the chance to make adjustments after the sprint race to fine-tune their cars. This could be especially helpful if they’re struggling with balance or performance.
Stella said, “The possibility to reopen parc ferme after the sprint has two implications.” It gives teams a chance to fix any mistakes and be more aggressive with their setup choices.
Teams found the chance to adjust their cars after the sprint race helpful. It allowed them to make small tweaks to improve performance, even if there weren’t any big changes to make.
