Formula 1 Explained: How It Works, Rules, Scoring & How to Watch Live
Formula 1 (F1) is the pinnacle of motorsport, blending cutting-edge technology, elite driving skill, and high-speed drama. Whether you’ve watched races before or are completely new to F1, this guide will break down how the sport works, how teams operate, how races are scored, and how you can watch the action live.
Table of Contents
What is Formula 1?
Formula 1 is the highest level of open-wheel, single-seater racing, featuring the fastest race cars on the planet. With speeds exceeding 220 mph (354 km/h) and forces up to 5G in corners, F1 demands peak physical and mental performance from drivers.
20 drivers, 10 teams compete in a season of 24 races (Grands Prix) across the world.
Cars are designed from scratch each season, featuring hybrid turbocharged engines and advanced aerodynamics.
The season winner is determined by points accumulated across the races.
F1 is not just about speed—strategy, tire management, pit stops, and split-second decisions can decide the race outcome.
How Do F1 Teams Work?
F1 teams are multi-million-dollar operations with hundreds of engineers, strategists, and pit crew members working behind the scenes.
Drivers: Each team has two drivers, competing for both individual and team points.
Engineers & Strategists: Design the car, monitor real-time data, and make race strategy decisions.
Pit Crew: Performs crucial pit stops, changing tires in under 2 seconds!
The most successful teams in F1 history include Ferrari, Mercedes, Red Bull, McLaren, and Williams.
F1 Race Weekend Format
An F1 race weekend spans three days and includes multiple sessions:
Friday: Practice (FP1 & FP2)
Teams test their cars, collecting data on tire wear, aerodynamics, and fuel consumption.
Saturday: Practice (FP3) & Qualifying
Qualifying determines the starting grid.
Drivers set their fastest lap times, and the quickest starts P1 (pole position).
Sunday: Race Day!
The Grand Prix (main race) is where points are awarded.
The driver who crosses the finish line first wins (after completing the required laps).
How Does F1 Scoring Work?
Unlike rally or endurance racing, Formula 1 uses a points-based system.
Points System (Top 10 Finishers)
1st - 25 points
2nd - 18 points
3rd - 15 points
4th - 12 points
5th - 10 points
6th - 8 points
7th - 6 points
8th - 4 points
9th - 2 points
10th - 1 point
Fastest Lap Bonus: The driver with the fastest lap in the race (if in the top 10) earns 1 extra point.
Championships
Drivers’ Championship – The driver with the most points at the end of the season wins the title.
Constructors’ Championship – Teams also compete for points, with their combined driver scores deciding the best constructor (team).
How to Watch F1 Live (TV & In-Person)
Watching F1 on TV & Streaming
Official Broadcasters: ESPN, Sky Sports, F1TV Pro, and more (varies by country).
F1TV Pro: Offers live onboard cameras, team radios, and exclusive insights.
Race Highlights: Available on YouTube after each race.
Watching F1 In-Person (Trackside Experience)
Watching an F1 race in person is a bucket-list experience for motorsport fans.
Best Seating Areas:
Grandstands at Turn 1 (best for first-lap action).
High-speed corners (to see aerodynamics at work).
Pit Straight (for race starts & podium celebrations).
F1 Paddock & Hospitality:
VIP passes allow access to team garages, pit lanes, and exclusive areas.
Meet F1 drivers, enjoy premium seating, and get behind-the-scenes access.
FAQs: Common F1 Questions
Q: How long is an F1 race?
A: Most F1 races last 90 minutes to 2 hours, covering 305 km (189 miles).
Q: Why do F1 drivers swap tires during a race?
A: Rules require them to use at least two different tire compounds, meaning every race includes a mandatory pit stop.
Q: What’s DRS (Drag Reduction System)?
A: A rear wing feature that reduces drag, helping cars gain speed on straights for easier overtaking.
Q: What’s the fastest F1 car ever?
A: The 2020 Mercedes W11 holds one of the highest top speeds, reaching 231.4 mph (372.5 km/h).
Q: How much does an F1 car cost?
A: The cost of a single F1 car is estimated at $12-15 million, excluding R&D and team operations.
Conclusion: Ready to Experience Formula 1?
Formula 1 is more than just fast cars—it’s about strategy, skill, and pushing the limits of engineering. Whether you're watching on TV or at the track, you’ll now have a better understanding of how F1 works.