What Is Formula 1 In Simple Terms?
Formula 1, often abbreviated as F1, stands as the pinnacle of motorsport. It features the world’s most talented drivers competing in high-performance cars on circuits across the globe.
F1 is a high-speed, technologically advanced racing series where teams and drivers battle for championship titles.
The “Formula” in Formula 1 refers to a set of strict rules that all teams must follow when building their cars. These regulations cover aspects such as engine specifications, aerodynamics, and safety features. This creates a level playing field while still allowing for innovation and engineering excellence.
F1 races, known as Grands Prix, take place on purpose-built circuits and temporary street tracks. Drivers aim to complete a set number of laps faster than their rivals, showcasing their skill and bravery at speeds exceeding 200 mph. The sport combines cutting-edge technology, strategy, and human performance in a thrilling spectacle that captivates millions of fans worldwide.
The Basics of Formula 1
Formula 1 is the pinnacle of motorsport, featuring high-speed races with cutting-edge cars driven by elite drivers. The sport combines advanced technology, strategic teamwork, and thrilling competition on circuits worldwide.
What Is Formula 1?
Formula 1, often abbreviated as F1, is the highest class of international auto racing for single-seater formula racing cars. Motor racing evolved significantly after World War II, becoming more structured and leading to the establishment of Formula One as the premier category in auto racing. It involves teams competing in a series of Grand Prix events held on purpose-built circuits and public roads. The “Formula” in the name refers to a set of rules that all participants must follow when designing and building their cars.
F1 cars are the fastest regulated road-course racing vehicles in the world. They feature sophisticated aerodynamics, powerful engines, and advanced materials to maximize performance. The sport attracts the best drivers globally, who compete for prestigious titles and substantial prize money.
The Objective of a Grand Prix
The main goal of a Formula 1 Grand Prix is to complete a set number of laps around a circuit in the shortest time possible. Drivers aim to finish first and earn points based on their final position. The race distance is typically around 305 kilometers (190 miles), lasting about 90 minutes.
Points are awarded to the top 10 finishers, with the winner receiving 25 points. These points accumulate throughout the season to determine the World Drivers’ Championship and World Constructors’ Championship. Races also feature elements like pit stops for tire changes and refueling, adding strategic depth to the competition.
The History of Formula 1
Origins and Early Years
Formula 1, also known as F1, has a rich and fascinating history that spans over seven decades. The sport originated from the European Championship of Grand Prix races, which was established in the 1920s. These early races laid the groundwork for what would become the pinnacle of motorsport. The first non-championship race was the Turin Grand Prix, held in 1946, marking the beginning of a new era in racing.
However, it was not until 1950 that the first world championship race was held at Silverstone in the United Kingdom. This historic event marked the official start of the Formula 1 World Championship. The first driver to win the World Drivers’ Championship was Giuseppe “Nino” Farina, an Italian driver who drove for the Alfa Romeo team. Farina’s victory set the stage for the competitive and thrilling nature of Formula 1 that continues to this day.
Key Historical Milestones
Over the years, Formula 1 has undergone significant changes, with key milestones shaping the sport into what it is today. In 1958, the World Constructors’ Championship was introduced, recognizing the achievements of the teams alongside the drivers. This addition highlighted the importance of teamwork and engineering excellence in Formula 1.
Another major milestone was the first night race, held in Singapore in 2008. This event added a new dimension to the sport, with the unique challenge of racing under artificial lights. The introduction of hybrid engines in 2014 marked a significant technological advancement, focusing on efficiency and sustainability while maintaining high performance.
The sport has also seen the rise and fall of various teams and drivers. Legendary drivers like Juan Manuel Fangio, Ayrton Senna, and Michael Schumacher have dominated the sport at different times, each leaving an indelible mark on Formula 1. Their achievements and rivalries have contributed to the rich tapestry of F1 history.
The Race Weekend
Formula 1 race weekends span three days, packed with high-speed action and intense competition. Drivers and teams face a series of challenges as they prepare for the main event on Sunday.
Free Practice Sessions
Free practice sessions give teams and drivers the chance to test their cars and adjust setups. These sessions typically occur on Friday and Saturday mornings. Teams use this time to gather data on tire performance, fuel consumption, and aerodynamics.
Drivers familiarize themselves with the track layout and conditions. Engineers analyze telemetry data to fine-tune car settings. This preparation is crucial for optimizing performance in qualifying and the race.
Practice sessions also allow teams to test new components or experimental setups. However, they must balance testing with the need to preserve engines and gearboxes for the full race weekend.
Qualifying Sessions
Qualifying determines the starting grid for the Grand Prix. It usually takes place on Saturday afternoon and consists of three elimination rounds: Q1, Q2, and Q3.
In Q1, all 20 drivers compete for 18 minutes. The slowest five are eliminated and fill positions 16-20 on the grid. Q2 lasts 15 minutes, with the slowest five drivers taking positions 11-15.
The final session, Q3, is a 12-minute shootout between the top 10 drivers for pole position. This intense battle often comes down to fractions of a second, showcasing the drivers’ skill and nerve under pressure.
Race Day
Sunday is race day, the climax of the Formula 1 weekend. Drivers participate in a warm-up lap, also known as the formation lap, before lining up on the starting grid. This lap allows them to check their car’s performance and the track conditions. When the lights go out, they sprint towards the first corner, jostling for position.
F1 races cover a minimum distance of 305 kilometers, typically lasting between 1.5 to 2 hours. Drivers must manage their tires, fuel, and energy deployment throughout the race. Pit stops for fresh tires and potential repairs add strategy and excitement.
Weather changes, safety car periods, and on-track battles keep fans on the edge of their seats. The first driver to cross the finish line after completing the full race distance is declared the winner, with points awarded to the top 10 finishers.
Technical Aspects of F1
Formula 1 cars are marvels of engineering, designed to maximize speed and performance. The technical aspects of these machines involve complex aerodynamics and sophisticated power units.
Car Design and Aerodynamics
F1 cars are built with a focus on aerodynamic efficiency. The body shape is carefully crafted to minimize air resistance while generating downforce. This downforce pushes the car onto the track, allowing for higher cornering speeds.
Key aerodynamic elements include:
- Front and rear wings
- Floor and diffuser
- Sidepods
These components work together to manage airflow around the car. Engineers constantly refine these designs to find the perfect balance between downforce and drag.
The use of lightweight materials like carbon fiber in car construction helps reduce weight while maintaining strength. This allows for better acceleration and handling.
Power Unit and ERS
The heart of an F1 car is its power unit, which consists of several components:
- Internal combustion engine
- Turbocharger
- Energy Recovery System (ERS)
The 1.6-liter V6 turbo engine is highly efficient, producing over 1000 horsepower. The ERS captures energy during braking and from exhaust heat, storing it in batteries for later use.
This stored energy can provide an extra boost of about 160 horsepower for up to 33 seconds per lap. The ERS significantly enhances acceleration and top speed.
The Electronic Control Unit (ECU) manages the power unit’s operation. It optimizes performance based on various factors like track conditions and driving style.
Tire compound selection also plays a critical role in performance. Teams choose from different compounds to suit track conditions and race strategy.
Understanding the Race
Formula 1 races are complex events with specific procedures and strategies. Drivers and teams must navigate various challenges to achieve victory on the track.
Starting Grid and Formation Lap
The starting grid determines each driver’s position at the beginning of the race. Qualifying sessions held before the race set this order, with the fastest driver claiming pole position. Before the race starts, cars complete a formation lap. This slow lap allows drivers to warm up their tires and engines while positioning themselves on the grid.
The Monaco Grand Prix, known for its prestigious and historic status, has unique conditions, including differing minimum race distance requirements compared to other Grands Prix.
During the formation lap, drivers maintain their qualifying order. They cannot overtake other cars unless there’s a problem. This lap gives drivers a final chance to check track conditions and communicate with their teams. Once all cars are in position on the grid, race officials signal the start.
Overtaking and Strategy
Overtaking is a key aspect of Formula 1 racing. Drivers use various techniques to pass competitors, including:
- Braking later into corners
- Taking different racing lines
- Using slipstreaming to reduce air resistance
DRS (Drag Reduction System) aids overtaking on certain parts of the track. It allows drivers to open a flap on their rear wing, reducing drag and increasing speed.
Pit stops play a crucial role in race strategy. Teams change tires and make adjustments to improve car performance. The timing of pit stops can significantly impact a driver’s position in the race.
“Dirty air” refers to turbulent airflow behind cars, making it harder for following cars to maintain grip. This effect influences overtaking opportunities and strategy decisions throughout the race.
Rules and Regulations
Formula 1 operates under a strict set of rules and regulations set by the FIA. These cover safety, penalties, and technical specifications for the cars.
Safety Measures
F1 prioritizes driver and spectator safety. Tracks feature barriers, run-off areas, and debris fences. Drivers wear fireproof suits, helmets, and use the HANS device to protect their necks. Cars have reinforced cockpits and energy-absorbing structures.
The Safety Car plays a key role during dangerous track conditions. It leads the pack at a reduced speed until the track is safe for racing to resume.
Medical facilities are stationed around the circuit for quick response. Extraction teams are ready to assist drivers in case of accidents.
Flags and Penalties
Flags communicate track conditions and warnings to drivers. Yellow flags signal danger, requiring drivers to slow down. Red flags stop the race. Blue flags tell lapped cars to let faster cars pass.
Penalties enforce fair racing. Time penalties add seconds to a driver’s race time. Drive-through penalties require drivers to pass through the pit lane at reduced speed. More severe infractions can result in disqualification.
Stewards review incidents during and after races to decide on penalties.
Technical Regulations
F1 cars must meet precise technical specifications. These cover dimensions, weight, and engine design. The current regulations limit engines to 1.6-liter V6 turbo-hybrids.
Aerodynamic rules control the shape and size of wings and other body parts. This aims to improve overtaking opportunities.
Teams have limits on testing time and wind tunnel usage. A cost cap restricts how much teams can spend annually.
The FIA regularly checks cars for compliance. Breaking these rules can lead to fines, point deductions, or disqualification.
Key F1 Terms
Formula 1 has its own unique vocabulary that fans and participants use to describe various aspects of the sport. These terms cover critical elements of racing strategy and performance.
Pole Position and Podium
Pole position refers to the first starting spot on the grid, earned by the fastest driver in qualifying. This coveted position gives a significant advantage at the race start. Drivers aim to secure pole to gain an early lead and control the pace.
The podium represents the top three finishers in a race. After crossing the finish line, these drivers celebrate on a raised platform. First place stands on the highest step, with second and third on lower steps. Podium finishes are crucial for drivers and teams, as they earn the most championship points.
Pits, Box, and Pit Stop Strategies
The pits are a designated area where cars receive service during races. Teams refer to this area as the “box.” Pit stops involve quick tire changes, refueling (in some racing series), and repairs.
Pit stop strategies play a key role in race outcomes. Teams carefully plan when to bring cars in, balancing factors like tire wear, fuel consumption, and track position. A well-executed pit stop can gain crucial seconds, while a poor one can cost positions.
Drivers may make multiple pit stops during a race, depending on tire degradation and fuel needs. The timing of these stops can make or break a driver’s chances of victory.
Prominent Figures and Teams
Formula 1 has produced legendary drivers and iconic teams that have shaped the sport’s history. These individuals and organizations have left an indelible mark on F1 through their achievements and innovations.
Legendary Drivers
Lewis Hamilton stands as one of F1’s greatest drivers, with seven world championships to his name. The British racer has broken numerous records during his career, including the most race wins and pole positions. Ayrton Senna, a Brazilian driver active in the 1980s and early 1990s, is widely regarded as one of the most talented and charismatic racers in F1 history. His aggressive driving style and three world championships cemented his legacy.
Max Verstappen represents the new generation of F1 talent. The Dutch driver became the youngest-ever F1 race winner in 2016 and secured his first world championship in 2021. Other notable drivers include Michael Schumacher, Juan Manuel Fangio, and Alain Prost, each leaving their mark on the sport.
Influential F1 Teams
Ferrari is the oldest and most successful team in F1, with a rich history dating back to the championship’s inception. The Italian team has won 16 constructors’ championships and produced numerous world champion drivers. Mercedes has dominated the sport in recent years, winning eight consecutive constructors’ titles from 2014 to 2021.
Red Bull Racing emerged as a powerhouse in the late 2000s, securing four consecutive drivers’ and constructors’ championships from 2010 to 2013. McLaren and Williams have also played significant roles in F1 history, each achieving multiple championships and technological innovations. The Racing Point team transitioned into Aston Martin, highlighting the impact of ownership changes and strategic shifts in response to market pressures. Alfa Romeo, one of the original F1 teams, has a storied past and continues to compete in the modern era.
Racing Circuits and Grand Prix
Formula 1 races take place on circuits around the world. These tracks vary in layout and challenge, hosting prestigious events known as Grand Prix.
Iconic Tracks
Monaco stands out as one of the most famous F1 circuits. Its tight streets and hairpin turns test drivers’ skills to the limit. Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium features the fast, sweeping Eau Rouge corner. Monza in Italy, known as the “Temple of Speed,” allows cars to reach their top velocities.
Silverstone in the UK hosted the first-ever F1 World Championship race in 1950. It remains a fixture on the calendar. Suzuka in Japan is praised for its figure-8 layout and challenging corners.
International Grand Prix
The F1 season spans the globe with races on multiple continents. The United States Grand Prix has been held at various locations, currently at the Circuit of the Americas in Texas.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix serves as the season finale, taking place at the Yas Marina Circuit. This track features a unique pit lane that passes under the track.
Other notable events include the British Grand Prix, Italian Grand Prix, and Singapore Grand Prix. Each race offers its own challenges and atmosphere, contributing to the global appeal of Formula 1.
F1 Seasons and Structure
Annual Calendar and Events
A Formula 1 season typically consists of a series of Grands Prix, with each event taking place over a weekend. The season usually starts in March and ends in December, with a total of 24 Grands Prix scheduled for the 2024 season. Each Grand Prix weekend is packed with action, starting with three practice sessions that allow teams to fine-tune their cars and strategies.
The qualifying session, held on Saturday, determines the starting grid for the World Championship race. Drivers compete to set the fastest lap times, with the quickest driver securing pole position. This coveted spot at the front of the grid provides a significant advantage for the race.
The World Championship race is typically held on a Sunday, with the winner being the driver who completes the most laps in the shortest time. Points are awarded based on finishing positions, contributing to the World Drivers’ Championship and the World Constructors’ Championship. The combination of practice sessions, qualifying, and the race itself makes each Grand Prix a thrilling and strategic battle, captivating fans around the world.
F1 Championship and Scoring
Formula 1’s championship system rewards drivers and teams based on their performance throughout the season. Points are awarded for race finishes, with the highest scorers crowned world champions.
World Championship Points System
Formula 1 uses a points-based scoring system to determine the World Champions. Drivers earn points based on their finishing position in each Grand Prix. The current system awards points to the top 10 finishers:
1st place: 25 points 2nd place: 18 points 3rd place: 15 points 4th place: 12 points 5th place: 10 points 6th-10th place: 8, 6, 4, 2, and 1 point respectively
An extra point is given to the driver who sets the fastest lap of the race, provided they finish in the top 10. This adds excitement to the competition, as every point can make a difference in the championship battle.
Winning the Championship
The F1 Drivers’ Championship is awarded to the driver who accumulates the most points over the course of a season. Each race contributes to a driver’s total, making consistency key to success. The champion is often determined by their ability to finish races in high-scoring positions regularly.
The Constructors’ Championship follows a similar format, with teams earning points based on the combined finishes of their two drivers in each race. This title recognizes the top-performing team across the season.
The excitement builds as the season progresses, with drivers and teams vying for crucial points. The Chequered Flag at the final race often marks the crowning of new world champions in both driver and constructor categories.
The Evolution of Formula 1
Formula 1 has transformed dramatically since its inception in 1950. The sport has seen significant changes in technology, safety, and governance over the decades.
Historical Milestones
The first Formula 1 World Championship race took place at Silverstone in the United Kingdom on May 13, 1950. Giuseppe Farina won this inaugural event, setting the stage for the sport’s growth. In the early years, F1 cars were front-engined with basic technology and minimal safety features.
The 1960s saw a shift to rear-engined cars, improving performance and handling. The 1970s brought increased sponsorship and television coverage, expanding F1’s global reach. Safety became a major focus in the 1980s following several tragic accidents.
The 1990s and 2000s saw F1 become a truly global sport, with races held across multiple continents. In 2017, Liberty Media acquired F1, aiming to modernize the sport and attract new fans.
Technological Advancements
F1 has been at the forefront of automotive innovation. The sport has driven advancements in aerodynamics, materials science, and power unit technology. In the 1960s, teams began experimenting with wings to increase downforce.
The 1970s introduced ground effect aerodynamics, dramatically improving cornering speeds. Turbocharging became popular in the 1980s, leading to enormous power outputs. The 1990s saw the introduction of advanced electronics and traction control systems.
Recent years have focused on hybrid power units and energy recovery systems. These technologies have made F1 cars more efficient while maintaining high performance. The sport continues to push boundaries, with ongoing research into sustainable fuels and advanced materials.
What is Formula 1? – FAQs
How did Formula 1 start?
The origins of Formula One can be traced back to the European Championship of the 1920s and 1930s. World War II put to a stop all racing in Europe. Some motor-racing enthusiasts started racing motor cars after World War II. In 1946 Formula One was agreed as a set of rules that all competitors must comply to. The 1946 Turin Grand Prix was the first Formula One Grand Prix event held.
Although many Grand Prix organisations across Europe had formulated rules for Grand Prix racing, racing was suspended because of the conflict. The World Drivers’ Championship was formalised in 1947. The first world championship race was held at Silverstone in Great Britain in 1950. The World Constructors’ Championship followed eight years later.
Who won the first Formula 1 World Championship?
The Italian driver Guiseppe Farina, driving an Alfa Romeo, narrowly defeated Juan Manuel Fangio, the Argentine and his teammate, to walk away with the first World Championship for Drivers crown. Fangio came back strongly to win the 1951 championship. The Argentinian followed that up with victories in 1954, 1955, 1956 and 1957 setting an early record for four consecutive titles that stood for 45 years.
The early years of the car saw road car manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz, Alfa Romeo, Ferrari and Maserati racing their cars. These were the same manufacturers who had competed before the world war. The cars were front-engined and were powered by supercharged 1.5 litres engines or 4.5 litres naturally aspirated engines. Mercedes introduced the W196 with fuel injection in 1954 when the new formula limited engines to 2.5 litres.
What were the F1 technical and engineering changes in the ‘60s and ‘70s?
Over the next two decades, the teams saw the need for specially engineered cars for World Championship racing. Jack Brabham’s success in 1959, 1960 and 1966 made mid-engined cars popular in championship racing. The Fergusson P99 was the last front-engined car to compete in the World Championships at the 1961 British Grand Prix.
In 1962 Lotus came up with the greatest technological breakthrough for mid-engined cars. They introduced the aluminium monocoque chassis to the racing world marking the end of the space-frame chassis. Cigarette sponsors started advertising their products on racing cars starting with Imperial Tobacco in 1968. That marked the beginning of sponsorship in motor car racing.
Aerodynamics started to make an appearance in the World Championships with the advent of aerofoils in the late 1960s. Lotus came up with a way to increase cornering speeds by introducing ground-effect aerodynamics. The downforce thus created needed stiff springs to maintain a constant ride height. Drivers had to rely solely on cushioning from the tyres for any comfort while driving.
How does F1 make so much money?
When in 1971, Bernie Eccelstone bought the Brabham Team, he earned a seat on the Formula One Constructors’ Association (FOCA). He became the president of the association in 1978. Before Eccelsstone’s intervention, the circuit owners negotiated with individual teams. Eccelstone persuaded the FOCA to offer the circuit owners a collective deal which proved beneficial to the constructors.
Fédération Internationale du Sport Automobile (FISA) was formed in 1979 and it immediately proceeded to assert its right over television revenues. When FOCA had a dispute with FISA over technical regulations, FOCA boycotted a Grand Prix. FISA was forced to withdraw its sanctions from the race. FISA also later ceded the administration of television rights to FOCA.
There were further disputes. Constructors were coming out with turbocharged engines that were producing power over 1,300 bhp (BMW in 1986). FISA had already banned ground effect aerodynamics in 1983. The FIA reduced fuel tank capacity to reduce the power output of the engines in 1984. Ultimately, the FIA altogether banned turbocharged engines in 1989.
Lotus first unveiled a car with active suspension on Lotus 91 in 1982. By 1987, Ayrton Senna had driven his actively suspended car to victory in the Monaco Grand Prix. Electronic driver aids, semi-automatic gearboxes and traction control started being introduced by the teams. Amid complaints that technology had more of a say in determining the outcome of races, the FIA banned many of these aids.
But Formula One became a big business with sponsors pouring in money. Television rights earned a lot of money for both the FIA and the teams. Teams started spending hundreds of millions of dollars in developing cars that will win the championship. The teams signed a second Concorde Agreement in 1992 and a third in 1997.
What is the F1 Concorde Agreement?
The F1 Concorde Agreement is a contract signed between the FIA, the Formula One teams, and the Formula One Group. It is a contract by which the three parties agree on how to divide the television revenues among themselves. The agreement has resulted in increased professionalism and an increase in revenue for the sport.
Eight Concorde Agreements have been signed so far. While the latest agreement was signed in 2020, other agreements were signed in 1981, 1987, 1992, 1997, 1998, 2009 and 2013. The agreements also encourage teams to participate in all Grands Prix. This is beneficial to broadcasters who invest heavily in the television rights for the sport.
What rule changes did the FIA make in the 1990s and why?
While Brabham was competitive during the early eighties, McLaren and Williams had dominated most of the decade and the following decade. Between 1988 and 1993 till Alain Prost retired, the rivalry between him and Ayrton Senna came into focus. Ayrton Senna died at the San Marino Grand Prix in 1994 causing the FIA to concentrate on driver safety.
Matters were not helped when Roland Ratzenberger died the same weekend. The FIA immediately made rule changes unilaterally using safety as the reason. Under the Concorde agreement, these changes would have to be agreed upon by all three parties. Intending to reduce speed, the FIA stipulated narrow rear tyres for the competing cars.
The narrower grip of the tyres resulted in the designers responding with more downforce generated in their cars. The resulting turbulent air in the wake of the car made overtaking difficult. To hold the grooved tread blocks of the tyres, the compound used in making the tyres was harder. The harder compound could not grip the track well and this led to many spectacular accidents.
McLaren, Ferrari, Williams and Renault shared all the Constructors’ Championships from 1979 to 2008 between them. They also won all the World Championships from 1984 to 2008. They were dubbed the “Big Four” by the media. At the same time, the technological advances made the cost of competing in Formula One increase dramatically.
The Big Four were funded by big car manufacturing corporations. The weaker and poorer teams found the going difficult. These teams could not be competitive and struggled to stay in Formula One racing. Many teams withdrew from the competition. Twenty-eight teams have withdrawn from Formula One since 1990 which made Eddie Jordan remark that the days of private competitors were over.
Why did the FIA change rules between 1999 and 2006?
Between 1999 and 2004, Michael Schumacher won five consecutive Drivers’ Championships driving a Ferrari. He had done better than Jose Manuel Fangio 45 years back. Ferrari won six Constructors’ Championships on the trot. Schumacher retired in 2006 but returned to Formula One racing in 2010 when Mercedes also returned to the fray.
All the while the FIA was busy changing the rules to improve competitiveness and cut costs. Teams were blatantly using Team Orders to manipulate races and the FIA promptly banned them. Amendments were made to the points awarding system, qualifying system and technical regulations. Time was stipulated for how long engines and tyres should last.
In 2000, Ford purchased Stewart Grand Prix and formed the Jaguar Racing team. New manufacturer-owned teams like Toyota, Renault, Honda, BMW and Ferrari took to Formula One. McLaren, partly owned by Mercedes was the only exception and remained put. The new teams took five of the top six places and dominated the championship. The manufacturers, through the Grand Prix Manufacturers Association, negotiated a larger share of Formula One’s revenues and a larger say in the conduct of the sport.
Why did private competitors return to Formula One after 2008?
In 2008, the world economy crashed. Manufacturers like BMW, Honda and Toyota withdrew from Formula One over 2008 and 2009 citing economic recession. While Peter Sauber, the founder of the team bought BMW F1, Honda became Brawn GP. The Renault team was bought by Genii Capital. Jenson Button won the 2009 World Championship for Brawn GP.
While McLaren bought back its share from Mercedes in 2010, Mercedes bought Brawn GP to join Formula One. The only car manufacturers in the sport now were McLaren, Renault, Mercedes and Ferrari. To replace the manufacturer’s teams, four new teams were admitted into Formula One. They were the US F1 Team, Hispania Racing, Team Lotus and Virgin Racing.
The new entrants to Formula One were ill-prepared for the expenditure incurred in Formula One racing. Moreover, the proposed cost caps were repealed three times. The newer teams, not having the budget of the more established teams inevitably finished at the back of the field. By 2016 all four teams had collapsed.
What was the major F1 rule shake-up in 2014?
In 2014 the FIA, to increasing fuel efficiency and better energy-recovery, stipulated that all cars will be fitted with 1.6 litres, turbocharged V6 engines. The manufacturers were pleased because their road car customers could easily identify with the engine size. Each car would be allowed four engines per season.
Honda returned to Formula One in 2015. But Mercedes has won both the World Drivers’ Championship and the World Constructors Championship since 2014. Lewis Hamilton has won six drivers’ championships driving for Mercedes while Nico Rosberg won the 2016 title. In 2014, Marussia and Caterham teams were put into administration. The futures of Sauber and Force India were also in doubt.
The Haas F1 Team joined formula One in 2016. After Honda’s rejoining in 2015, Renault joined Formula One as a team in 2018. Later years saw more manufacturers joining the ranks. In 2018, Alfa Romeo sponsored Sauber. The same year, Aston Martin volunteered to sponsor Red Bull. Sauber was rebranded as Alfa Romeo Racing the following year. The Racing Point team was rebranded as Aston Martin for the 2021 season after the intervention of Lawrence Stroll.
A new Concorde Agreement was signed by all 10 teams in 2020 binding them to the sport till 2025. In the agreement, all the teams agreed to a budget cap of $145M for car development. The aim was to support equal competition and to promote sustainable development. The 2020 Formula One season had to be delayed and rescheduled because of the COVID19 pandemic.
What is a Formula One Grand Prix?
A Formula One Grand Prix is held over a weekend. Friday is designated as a practice session day when two free practice sessions are held. Practice sessions are moved a day forward in Monaco and held on Thursday. Third drivers are allowed to practice on Fridays but they have to use a car designated for a race driver as only two cars are allowed for a race.
Qualifying sessions are held on Saturdays and the session will determine the starting order for the race. The Grand Prix is held on Sunday and is the main event of the weekend. On all the weekend days circuits organise various entertainment events for the attending fans. The best events are scheduled after the Grand Prix on Sunday.
What is a Formula 1 qualifying session?
F1 Qualifying Sessions are when the drivers strive to set the fastest lap times which will determine their starting place on the starting grid. In Q1, the first qualifying session, the slowest five drivers are allotted the last five places on the grid. The remaining 15 drivers (there are only 20 cars in a race) decide the next worst five starting positions in Q2.
In Q3 (Qualifying 3), the last ten drivers contest for the best place on the starting grid. The drivers get 15 minutes to set their fastest lap times. The driver with the fastest lap time is awarded the pole position on the starting grid. The remaining drivers are ranked according to their fastest lap times and will take their designated places at the start of the race.
A set of soft tyres are allocated to drivers qualifying for Q3. These tyres must be returned by the drivers after the qualifying round. The driver that reached Q3 must start the race with the tyres that they used in Q2 unless the track conditions and the weather require otherwise. All other drivers are free to choose the tyres that they want at the start of the race.
If a car does not meet FIA scrutiny, the driver will be barred from qualifying sessions. The car has to start from the last position on the grid for the race. Any penalties during qualifying are applied at the end of qualifying. The penalty will determine the driver’s starting position in the race. Infractions may include changing a gearbox or an engine component.
How long is a Formula 1 Grand Prix race?
A Grand Prix race starts with a warm-up lap, called the formation lap. At the end of the lap, the drivers assemble at their designated places on the starting grid. Five red lights are illuminated at an interval of one second above the track. The race starts when all these five lights are extinguished simultaneously. If a car stalls, the race is restarted.
The race may also be restarted in case of a serious accident or inclement weather. The drivers will reassemble in the starting format and the race will restart from a standstill. The race, if stopped early after the start due to heavy rainfall or due to any other circumstances, will restart from a standstill.
A Grand Prix race is limited to a maximum of two hours. The FIA has standardised the distance over which cars race to 305 km. However, slower tracks like Monaco have a shorter distance to cover to enable the cars to complete the race within the stipulated time. Drivers are allowed pit stops to change tyres or other damaged components.
What is the role of the Race Director in F1?
The race director is responsible for managing the race. He inspects the cars before the race and controls the lights at the start of a race. In general, he enforces the rules of the FIA. He also plays a role in sorting disputes among teams and drivers. Among his many other duties, he determines and awards penalties if any are due, to teams and drivers.
What does the Safety Cars do in F1?
The safety car is deployed in case of an accident or there is a risk to the competitors, spectators or marshals. When a safety car is deployed, a yellow flag is waved and drivers are obliged to slow down and maintain position with overtaking forbidden. Pit stops are allowed during the time a safety car is deployed. Once the safety car withdraws the race resumes with a rolling start.
The lead driver will lead the cars to the timing line. Once the cars cross the timing line drivers can race and compete for a place position. Companies like Mercedes-Benz and Aston Martin supply outfitted cars to the FIA to be used as Safety Cars. Various flags are used to indicate dangerous situations on or near the track. A green flag means normal racing conditions.
How are points awarded in Formula One?
In the current championship points awarding system, the driver must finish a race among the first ten to get a point or points. The driver with the fastest lap gets awarded with one point whether he finished in the top ten or not. Those who finish outside the top ten are not awarded any points. The following table shows the points awarded.
| Position | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | 6th | 7th | 8th | 9th | 10th | FL* |
| Points | 25 | 18 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
The points scored by the driver are added at the end of the season. The driver who has accumulated the most points is awarded the World Driver’s Championship. Even if a driver switched team mid-season, the points scored by him still count and will be added at the end of the season. A driver may also be awarded points if he stops mid-race but has completed 90 per cent of the distance covered by the winner of the race.
Constructors are also awarded points depending on their cars performance during the race. The constructor that aggregates maximum points will be awarded the World Constructors’ Championship. Constructors entering Formula One have to pay US$30M to the FIA. That is the reason why constructors prefer buying other registered teams.
Why is Formula One so expensive?
Running and maintaining a Formula One team is a very costly affair. That makes Formula One one of the costliest sports in the World. The FIA recognises this and is taking vigorous measures to minimise the costs incurred in owning a Formula One team.
A Formula One team has to first develop a car. It has to also maintain a staff of hundreds of people and pay them throughout the year. The staff will consist of managers, designers engineers and mechanics, Besides these, there is the support staff. These people are skilled in their jobs and have to be paid substantial wages.
There are costs of air freight to ferry the vehicles, spares and personnel to the various venues in the world. Special purpose vehicles are needed to transport the cars and other materials from the airport to the venue. The personnel have to be accommodated at or near the venues. The team has to bear all these costs and they make up quite a bit.
In 2020, the teams and the FIA signed a Concorde Agreement that limits the teams’ expenditure to US$145M. The budget cap excludes the salaries of the top management, drivers, engines and a few other things. They have also agreed to use the same cars used in 2020.
All teams are secretive about their actual expenditure in a season. That makes it difficult to state an exact figure of expenditure for any team. But a rough estimate is that a poorer team will spend at least US$160M in a season. The annual spending of a team with access to money could be upward of US$400M.
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