Wolff convinced: 'Smartest proposal we've had in years'

Formula 1 announced three sprint races last week. The new concept will take place on three circuits this season, so that the whole sport can assess the method. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff is very curious and convinced about the sprint races.

The sprint races are meant to replace a free practice session and are decisive for the starting grid on Sunday. Not all teams reacted positively to the concept immediately, but Wolff sees plenty of opportunities. "The fact is that this is the most intelligent proposal we've had in years, if you compare it with what fell through. So I think we should do it and try it out," he told Sky.

Wolff even sees opportunities to expand the concept further. "Maybe in the long run it can be extended to a kind of Grand Slam to give some weekends added value," said the team boss, who realises himself that Saturday could be decisive in the future. "There are so many points up for grabs throughout the year that Saturday could obviously be decisive for the World Championship, but we don't know that."

Start grid in Portimao

In Portugal, the two cars of Mercedes will start at the front. Valtteri Bottas captured P1 on Saturday afternoon, while Lewis Hamilton was just a little slower. Max Verstappen will start from third position.