Tissot Sprint
2023 marked a new era for the MotoGP™ World Championship . For the first time in history , a Grand Prix featured a feature race as well as a Sprint , held on Saturday , and held over a rough half race distance . And this new popular format will continue throughout 2024 !
Those new to MotoGP™ may ask how does the Sprint work ? Well , qualifying determines the grid , and the riders line up in their respective positions for lights out . The Sprint lasts roughly half the amount of time of Sunday ’ s race , which will vary from Grand Prix to Grand Prix .
Championship points are awarded differently to Sunday too , with 12 points handed out to the winner , going all the way down to one point for the top nine finishers . With the shortened distance , there is jaw-dropping action from the get-go as riders go all out to gain any advantage they can . Lights out in the Sprint is at 15:00 local time .
Jorge Martin , last year ’ s King of the Sprint
There is a unique podium ceremony too , which takes place in a different area of the circuit to help get fans closer to the action and the stars of the show . It ’ s also worth noting that victories and podiums don ’ t count towards a rider ’ s Grand Prix total , but rather , a new category will be created for the history books to keep the accolades separate . Regardless , it ’ s sure to be a joyous occasion for any rider who can get themselves onto the box . Celebrations can ’ t last too long though , as the weekend isn ’ t over yet !
“ The Sprint provides fantastic entertainment , guaranteeing drama-packed racing .”
MotoGP™ Sprint gives fans the chance to see two competitive outings instead of one during a race weekend . As witnessed throughout 2023 , the Sprint offers up fantastic entertainment , with dramapacked racing a guarantee throughout the outing . Outings in Portugal , Argentina , Qatar and Valencia were classic races , right up there with the best action served in any class !
Jorge Martin was last year ’ s King of the Sprint , picking up nine successes on Saturday , while Pecco Bagnaia claimed four Sprint successes . Alex Marquez and Brad Binder scored two apiece , while Marco Bezzecchi and Aleix Espargaro each managed one Sprint victory each .
Motorrad Grand Prix von Österreich | 17