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Sebastian Vettel against additional Saturday Formula 1 races

Four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel is against the idea of a Saturday race being introduced to spice up the format of a grand prix weekend

A potential second race on an F1 weekend was discussed at this week's Strategy Group meeting on Wednesday, along with other ideas to mix up the GP format.

But Vettel said a two-race weekend would go against F1's history.

"I love racing, but I'm traditional on some things so I'm not in favour of it," said Vettel.

"A grand prix should be a grand prix. I know it's only a qualifying race but it will take some of the spectacle from Sunday.

"I think we have different issues to solve, rather than if we have a race on Saturday."

Vettel then joked: "Maybe we should think about the real problems, like helmet designs!"

Nico Rosberg highlighted the DTM's switch to a two-race format for this year and said he was open to the change, but he also urged caution on going against F1's traditions.

"DTM just did it and I think that was quite successful for them," said the Mercedes driver.

"It gives more to the fans. We're all here anyway, so it's something to look into.

"The only thing I find a pity is it goes away from the Formula 1 tradition, that's the biggest thing that would bother me.

"It's like suddenly having seven Grand Slams in tennis instead of four - that would really bother people."

Reigning world champion Lewis Hamilton said he would like the format of the weekend to change, and he believes the drivers should be consulted on the matter.

"I would be very, very happy for the weekend to change," said Hamilton.

"I've been here nine years - Thursday-Friday-Saturday-Sunday always exactly the same, so I'd be happy for them to muddle it up to make it more exciting.

"If the format is the same for the next seven years I don't think I could take that!

"It would be sensible for the people that have to make those decisions to sometimes consult the drivers.

"Sometimes the gut feeling decision you take is better than the theoretical best choice.

"It would be positive for them to ask us and I'd love to help in any way I can."

McLaren's Jenson Button, however, dismissed the weekend format as a talking point.

"I don't think that's going to happen," said the 2009 world champion.

"It's not worth even commenting on, because it's not going to happen."

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