F1 Points System Explained: How Formula 1 Drivers Earn Championship Points?

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The F1 point system plays a crucial role in determining the World Champion and shaping race strategies. Every Formula 1 driver competes to finish as high as possible in each race to maximize their points and increase their chances of winning the title. Over the years, the F1 points system has evolved, introducing changes that impact racing dynamics, risk-taking, and overall competition.

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Evolution of the F1 Points System

Throughout F1 history, the F1 point system has undergone numerous changes, aiming to encourage overtaking, increase competition, and ensure fairness. The system is designed to reward top finishers while keeping the championship battle exciting. If the gap between first and second place were minimal—such as 25 points for first and 24 for second—drivers might hesitate to take risks. However, larger gaps between positions motivate drivers to push harder for victory.

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Key Elements of the F1 Points System

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1. Who Gets Points in F1?

Not all drivers in a race earn points. Only the top finishers receive points, with higher placements earning more. This system incentivizes aggressive yet strategic racing, as drivers strive to finish as high as possible.

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2. What Does Classified Mean in F1?

To be eligible for points, a driver must be classified, meaning they must complete at least 90% of the race distance covered by the winner. If a driver fails to meet this criterion, they are not awarded any points, regardless of their finishing position.

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3. When No Points Are Awarded

If a race is red-flagged before two laps are completed, no points are awarded to any driver. This ensures that extremely short and uncompetitive races do not impact the championship standings.

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4. Reduced Points for Shortened Races

Before 2022, if a race was halted and less than 75% of the scheduled distance was completed, the F1 point system dictated that only half points would be awarded. Famous instances include Malaysia 2009 and Belgium 2021, where rain-affected races led to reduced points being distributed.

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5. Splitting Points in Early F1 Seasons

In earlier iterations of the F1 point system, drivers could share a car during a race. If the shared car finished in the points, the two drivers split the points between them. This system is no longer in use.

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6. Double Points Experiment (2014 Season)

A controversial change was introduced in the 2014 F1 season, where the final race awarded double points. This meant that instead of 25 points for first place, the winner received 50 points. The rule was heavily criticized and was discontinued after just one season.

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7. Sprint Race Points

A recent addition to the F1 point system is the introduction of sprint races. These short-format races, held on select weekends, offer drivers a chance to earn extra points outside of the traditional Grand Prix. This change has made Saturdays more competitive, adding another layer of excitement to race weekends.

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8. Switching Teams Mid-Season

When a driver changes teams mid-season, their points for the Drivers’ Championship are carried over. However, for the Constructors’ Championship, the points earned with each team remain with the respective constructor.