Formula 1, or F1 as it’s affectionately known by high-speed enthusiasts, is a motor racing category where high-performance cars reach speeds exceeding 350km/h. It is considered the premier class of international motor racing.
A sport that combines speed, technology, mechanics, and competition to offer fans a true spectacle. Do you want to know more about this sport? Continue reading this article and discover the global prominence of Formula 1.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- What is Formula 1?
- How does Formula 1 work?
- How does the Formula 1 season work?
- Who are the Formula 1 drivers and teams?
- How can you watch Formula 1?
- How much does it cost to do a F1 trip?
What is Formula 1?
Formula 1 is the highest class of international motor racing. This modality gathers the best racing drivers of the world to compete where speed, technology, engineer, and high performance teams come together to put on a real show for their fans.
The competition is organized by Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), and has a series of racers competitions called Grand Prix (GPs).
Created in 1950, the F1 aimed to standardize high-speed single-seater races. In other words, racers that use single-seat vehicles (“monoseater”) with exposed wheels, designed for maximum performance, advanced technology, and refined aerodynamics.
The first official Grand Prix occurred on Silverstone circuit, in England, on 13 of may of 1950. This racer marked the start of automobilism attracting major manufacturers such as Alfa Romeo, Ferrari and Maserati. The Argentinian Juan Manuel Fangio was one of the first great champions.
Over the decades, the F1 has evolved significantly, with aerodynamic advancements and the use of lighter materials transforming cars, making them faster and safer. Year after year, the teams of Formula 1 invest in improvements to help their pilots win.
How does Formula 1 work?
A Formula 1 season is composed of a series of races, known as Grands Prix (GPs). Throughout the year, drivers and their teams travel to different parts of the world to compete and score points. In general, each season has about 20 or 23 racers, depending on the FIA calendar.
The GPs take place at circuits like Monaco, Silverstone, Monza, and Interlagos, as well as on new tracks in other countries, expanding the global reach of motorsport.
In practice, the competition awards the best pilot and the best team. The objective is to add points during the races to decide who is the World Champion of Drivers, and who is World Constructors Champion for the team.
How are points scored in Formula 1?
Each Grand Prix follows a race weekend format. It usually includes practice sessions, where teams prepare the cars, a qualifying session to define the starting grid, and the race itself, where drivers compete for points.
In each race, drivers earn points based on their finishing position. It’s important to know that only the 10 first places add points. See more details:
- 1st place: 25 points
- 2nd place: 18 points
- 3rd place: 15 points
- 4th place: 12 points
- 5th place: 10 points
- 6th place: 8 points
- 7th place: 6 points
- 8th place: 4 points
- 9th place: 2 points
- 10th place: 1 point
In addition, the driver who sets the fastest lap of the race earns one extra point, as long as they finish in the top 10.
How does the Formula 1 season work?
The Formula 1 season is a year-long championship. Normally from March to December, it introduced 20+ Grands Prix, or more than 20 racers, worldwide.
The drivers competed with each other, with the top-10 of each racer scoring points. The pilot with the highest number of points will be the winner in F1.
By the way, the competition also has the Constructors’ Championship, where the team with the most points wins the championship.
In 2026, the Formula 1 season began with 11 teams and 22 drivers. Each team competes with two cars. This season marks an expense with 11 teams. The participation of Cardilac represents the first time in a decade the grid has increased.
What is a Grand Prix?
F1 has a few singularities, and one of them is that racings are called Grand Prix, or GPs. This name has existed since the board of Formula 1, in 1950. The term comes from French, where motor racing happened on streets in the end of the 19th century, and later evolved to tests of resistance and speed on circuits.
In general, each GP is a motorsport event held over a weekend on a closed circuit, where drivers compete for the best finishing position using a combination of speed and strategy.
The racing weekend is divided into three parts:
- Free practice
Drivers and teams use these sessions to test the car, adjust settings, and prepare for the race. There are usually three practice sessions before qualifying.
- Qualifying
This session defines the starting grid for the race. Drivers compete for the fastest lap, and the one with the best time starts in first position.
- Official race
This is the main event of the weekend. Drivers compete over a set number of laps, and points are awarded based on their final position.
Where does the Grand Prix normally happen?
As a global sport, Formula 1 takes place in some of the most iconic locations around the world. Here are a few highlights:
- Monaco Grand Prix
One of the most famous and prestigious races, known for its narrow streets and challenging layout.
- British Grand Prix (Silverstone)
Considered the home of Formula 1, it’s one of the oldest and most traditional races on the calendar.
- Italian Grand Prix (Monza)
Known as the “Temple of Speed,” Monza is famous for its fast straights and passionate fans.
- Brazilian Grand Prix (Interlagos)
A fan favorite, known for unpredictable races and emotional moments in F1 history.
- Japanese Grand Prix (Suzuka)
Recognized for its unique track design and as a frequent stage for championship decisions.
- United States Grand Prix (Austin)
A modern race that helped expand Formula 1’s popularity in the U.S.
In recent years, Formula 1 has expanded to new destinations, including the Miami Grand Prix. As a newer race on the calendar, it stands out for combining high-speed competition with a vibrant and modern atmosphere.
Who are the Formula 1 drivers and teams?
The 2026 Formula 1 season features 22 drivers across 11 teams. The biggest addition this year is Cadillac, which joins the championship as the eleventh team on the grid.
Each team competes with two cars and fights for both the Drivers’ Championship and the Constructors’ Championship.
The 2026 Formula 1 teams and drivers are:
| Team | Drivers |
| Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team | George Russell • Kimi Antonelli |
| Ferrari | Charles Leclerc • Lewis Hamilton |
| McLaren | Lando Norris • Oscar Piastri |
| Red Bull Racing | Max Verstappen • Isack Hadjar |
| Aston Martin | Fernando Alonso • Lance Stroll |
| Alpine | Pierre Gasly • Franco Colapinto |
| Williams | Carlos Sainz • Alexander Albon |
| Racing Bulls | Liam Lawson • Arvid Lindblad |
| Haas F1 Team | Esteban Ocon • Oliver Bearman |
| Cadillac | Sergio Pérez • Valtteri Bottas |
| Audi | Nico Hülkenberg • Gabriel Bortoleto |
From season to season, the drivers can be moved to another team, and new talents may arise on the grid. So, each year comes a new F1.
How do Formula 1 teams work?
Formula 1 teams are composed of a large group of engineers, strategists, and mechanics working together to improve performance. Everyone together has the responsibility for designing, building, and maintaining their cars throughout the season.
Each team has two drivers who compete in every race, contributing points to the Constructors’ Championship. During a race weekend, teams make decisions about car setup, tire strategy, and pit stops. These choices can directly impact the final result, showing that Formula 1 is not only about driving skills, but also about teamwork and strategy.
Who are some of the most famous Formula 1 drivers?
Formula 1 history is filled with legendary drivers who helped turn the sport into a global phenomenon. Names such as Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher, and Lewis Hamilton are celebrated not only for their championship titles but also for their unforgettable performances and lasting impact on and off the track.
In recent years, drivers like Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, and Lando Norris have also established themselves among the sport’s leading stars. They are joined by Mercedes teammates George Russell, known for his speed, consistency, and ability to fight for victories, and Kimi Antonelli, one of the most promising young talents of the new generation.
Antonelli has been one of the standout performers of the 2026 season. In just his second year in Formula 1, the Italian secured his first Grand Prix victories, became the youngest driver ever to claim a Formula 1 Grand Prix pole position, and also the youngest championship leader in the sport’s history. His rapid development and impressive performances for Mercedes have made him one of the biggest stories of the season.
Russell, meanwhile, brings experience and leadership to the team. The British driver opened the 2026 campaign with a victory at the Australian Grand Prix and, together with Antonelli, forms one of the strongest driver pairings on the grid.
Every season brings new rivalries, emerging talents, and unforgettable moments that keep the excitement and passion for Formula 1 alive.
How can you watch Formula 1?
Watching Formula 1 is an exciting experience for anyone who enjoys speed, technology, and competition. Races are broadcast in countries around the world through television networks and streaming platforms, allowing millions of fans to follow every round of the season.
Depending on your location, you can watch races live, replay full sessions on demand, or catch race highlights through official broadcasters or F1 TV, Formula 1’s official streaming service.
With F1 TV, you can watch live sessions on multiple devices, including computers, tablets, and smartphones, as well as on your television through supported platforms such as Apple TV, Google TV, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, and Chromecast. Availability and features may vary depending on your country and subscription plan.
Beyond live broadcasts, Formula 1 also has a strong presence across social media, mobile apps, and official digital platforms. These channels provide news, analysis, behind-the-scenes content, interviews, and real-time updates to help fans stay connected throughout the season.
If you’re planning to attend a Grand Prix in person, it’s recommended to purchase your tickets well in advance, especially for the most popular races on the calendar.
How to start following Formula 1?
Starting to follow Formula 1 doesn’t need to be hard. Everyone, with a little search, can understand more about that. A good way to begin is by knowing the basics, like how races work, who the teams and drivers are, and how the championship is structured.
Another great way to enjoy Formula 1 is by choosing a favorite driver or team. It makes every race more exciting and helps you connect with the sport on a deeper level. You can also download the official Formula 1 app and build your own F1 Fantasy team to compete with friends and put your predictions to the test throughout the season.
Over time, as you watch more races and learn about the strategies and rivalries, it becomes easier to understand and enjoy Formula 1.
How much does it cost to do a F1 trip?
If you are planning to go watch a race live, the cost can vary a lot, depending on the destination, type of experience, and how early you start the plan. Tickets alone can range from around $100 for general admission to over $1,000 for premium seating or hospitality packages.
By the way, you also need to consider transportation, accommodation, food, and other travel expenses. Remember: the GP lasts all weekend, so there are three days.
Now, if your plan is to watch a race in your own country, costs tend to be lower since you can save on flights and sometimes even accommodation.
But for international races, planning ahead is essential to find better prices and avoid high last-minute costs. Some destinations, like Monaco or Las Vegas, are known for being more expensive, while others may offer more accessible options.
How to plan your F1 trip:
- Choose your destination early
Popular races sell out quickly, so planning in advance helps secure better prices.
- Compare travel and accommodation options
Look for alternatives near the circuit or in nearby cities to reduce costs.
- Set a clear budget
Define how much you want to spend and prioritize what matters most for your experience.
To help you plan, here’s a simple example of the main costs involved in a Formula 1 trip:
| Category | Estimated cost (USD) | Notes |
| Race ticket | $100 – $1,000+ | General admission to premium seating |
| Flights | $300 – $1,200 | Depends on distance and booking time |
| Accommodation | $300 – $1,500 | 2–4 nights, varies by city and demand |
| Transportation | $50 – $200 | Local transport or car rental |
| Food & drinks | $100 – $300 | During the race weekend |
| Extras | $100 – $500 | Merch, tours, unexpected expenses |
| Total | $950 – $4,700+ | Depends on your travel style |
This is an only estimated cost, it can be changed from season to season.
If you feel like watching, following, or thinking about going to a GP, it’s the perfect time. Planning your next trip and arriving at your destination, and see more closely your preferred sport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is Formula 1?
Formula 1 is the highest level of international single-seater car racing, featuring teams and drivers competing in a global championship.
2. How does a Formula 1 race work?
A race weekend includes practice sessions, qualifying to set the starting grid, and the race where drivers compete for points.
3. How many teams and drivers are in Formula 1?
There are usually 10 teams and 20 drivers, with two drivers competing for each team.
4. How long is a Formula 1 season?
A season typically runs from March to December and includes around 20 to 23 races around the world.
5. How are points scored in Formula 1?
Points are awarded to the top 10 drivers in each race, with extra points for the fastest lap under certain conditions.
6. Where can I watch Formula 1 races?
You can watch Formula 1 through official broadcasters, streaming platforms, or the F1 TV service, depending on your location.
7. How much does it cost to attend a Formula 1 race?
Costs vary widely, from around $100 for basic tickets to thousands for premium experiences, plus travel expenses.
8. What is the most famous Formula 1 race?
The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most iconic races, known for its prestige and unique street circuit.
9. How fast are Formula 1 cars?
Formula 1 cars can reach speeds of over 300 km/h (186 mph), making them some of the fastest racing cars in the world.
10. How can I start following Formula 1?
Start by learning the basics, watching races, and choosing a team or driver to follow to make the experience more engaging.
