Complex systems tend to confuse us when we want to learn something new. However, these systems are in place to make a competition fair and somewhat reliable long-term. Some tournaments have a weird system that doesn’t really make sense, neither to the athletes nor to the fans, but still they compete and we watch.
Some systems are clearer, but still need some explaining. Let us take a look at the Formula 1 point system and how it works, what makes it better than other systems and how to grasp it as fast as possible.
What to Expect from Formula 1?
Formula 1 is the pinnacle of open car racing, and has been since the 1950s. The formula refers to the regulations which are enforced that govern a certain type of race. The 1 means that it is the best and the most popular.
There are various Formulas and they are not the same type of motorsport, but are governed by the FIA and are thus under the formula label.
F1 has 10 teams, each with 2 racers, meaning 20 racers. There is a set number of races, all of which are held on a weekend, a weekend being reserved for a single race.
The Races – The Grand Prix
Races are only held on weekends. The reason for this is that all three days are used for racing, preparation and qualifying. There are two practice sessions on Friday, called FP1 and FP2. The sessions are one hour long, each. The sessions are used as a warmup, for the drivers to get familiar with the track and with the conditions. On Saturday, another free practice race is scheduled in the morning, called FP3. Later in the day, the actual qualification race is held.
Qualifying
Qualifying has three sessions, Q1, Q2 and Q3. 18 racers race for 18 minutes and the ones with the best times proceed to the next round. The two last ones take the last place in the grid. Q2 lets 15 fastest racers compete for 15 minutes, or rather, proceed to the next round. Out of the top 15, the top 10 compete in Q3, but race for 12 minutes. The top 10 are then organized according to their best time.
Race Points
Races are simple when it comes to the point. Every racer who finishes in the top 10 wins some points. The points go as follows, from 10 to 1: 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, 18, and 25 for the victor. The driver with the fastest lap gets an additional point, but they have to be in the top 10 to claim that bonus.
Since 2021, fewer points are awarded to the top 10 if less than 75%, 50% and 25% of the race is finished, fewer points if the percentage is lower. The ones with the most points at the end of the season are awarded World Champion, there being a separate award for driver and constructor.
This is how F1 works, simple and effective as far as points systems are concerned.
