Formula 1, often abbreviated as F1, is the pinnacle of motorsport racing. It features the fastest and most technologically advanced cars in the world, driven by 20 of the best drivers on the planet. The sport is governed by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) and consists of a series of races known as Grand Prix, held on various circuits around the globe. These 24 races take place on both purpose-built tracks and temporary street circuits, offering a diverse range of challenges for the teams and drivers. While still newer to the United States, Formula 1 is a thrilling and globally popular sport.
The Formula 1 World Championship is divided into two main titles: the Drivers' Championship and the Constructors' Championship. The Drivers' Championship is awarded to the driver who accumulates the most points over the course of a season, while the Constructors' Championship goes to the team (constructor) that scores the most points. The point system is designed to reward drivers and teams based on their finishing positions in each race. Points are awarded to the top ten finishers, with the winner receiving 25 points. The second place earns 18 points, third place gets 15, and so on, down to tenth place, which receives one point. Additionally, a bonus point is awarded to the driver who sets the fastest lap of the race, provided they finish within the top ten. This system encourages not only consistent high performance but also strategic decisions during the race, as teams and drivers aim to maximize their points haul over the course of the season. The accumulation of these points determines the standings in both the Drivers' and Constructors' Championships.
The 2024 season has been a thrilling year of racing, marked by intense competition and remarkable performances. Max Verstappen has continued his dominance in the sport, securing his fourth consecutive Drivers' Championship title at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. His consistent performance and multiple race wins have solidified his status as one of the sport's greats. McLaren has emerged as a formidable force this season. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have both secured race victories, showcasing the team's power and competitiveness. Their performances have been a highlight, with Norris demonstrating his capability to challenge for the championship this season and a possible win in the future. This year was deemed not quite his yet, but it can be speculated that he will have his championship in coming years.
Ferrari has also had a strong season, with Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz Jr. both achieving race wins. The team's improved performance has been a welcome sight for fans, as they continue to push for a return to their former glory. Leclerc's consistency and Sainz's strategic prowess have been key factors in their success. Mercedes, while not as dominant as in Hamilton’s golden years, has still been competitive this season. Lewis Hamilton and George Russell have both secured multiple victories, contributing to a season filled with exciting battles on the track. The team's ability to adapt and remain in contention highlights their resilience and expertise. Hamilton won his home race in Silverstone for an emotional victory, his first win in 945 days.
The 2024 season features a record-breaking 24 races, including the return of the Chinese Grand Prix after a four-year hiatus. This expanded calendar has provided fans with more action and has tested the endurance and skill of the drivers and teams. Overall, the season has been a testament to the evolving dynamics of Formula 1, with multiple teams and drivers showcasing their talents and making significant strides.
With Verstappen having already won the Driver’s Championship in Vegas, second place is still up for grabs by either Charles Leclerc or Lando Norris, just nine points separating the two in the standings. This second place is down to being decided in the last race of the calendar in Abu Dhabi. As for the Constructors’ Championship, McLaren currently leads with 640 points, with a close second place of 619 points from Ferrari. Ferrari needs to outscore McLaren by at least 22 points to overtake them in the championship. Should McLaren have stronger or too close of a point gap from their finishes, McLaren will have clinched their first Constructors’ title in many years. Teams will need to balance aggression with caution. Any mistakes or retirements could be costly, so strategy, pit stops, and tire management will be crucial.
What these outcomes of the championships mean for teams and drivers all leads back to money and sponsorships. The prize money in Formula 1 is distributed based on standings in the Constructors’. The top team receives around 14% of the total prize pool while the 10th place team receives around 6%. A perk that works in the last place team’s favor is testing time, the worse a team does in the championship, the more testing time they are granted in preseason of the next year. Drivers do not directly receive any prize money, but they often are driven to persform better not just for the glory, but their performance-based bonuses written into their contracts. You’ll find the highest paid drivers are the ones winning race after race.
Looking forward to the 2025 season, there are many driver lineup changes in store. The grid we know, and love is getting shaken up with some rookies coming onto the scene. The youngsters are sure to excite fans next season and give them a hard time predicting how the season may go. There are sure to be some teammate rivalries next year as well, one being the new boys of Ferrari, “Il Predestinato” Charles Leclerc, Ferrari’s golden boy, and seven time world champion who’s always dreamed of racing in red, Lewis Hamilton. Both will be fighting to be the top dog. The same could be seen over at McLaren with Lando being the more veteran of the team, but strong contender Oscar Piastri is tired of being second to his teammate.
The winter break is a drag for many fans with nothing to look forward to for several months. While there is no live racing, viewers can rewatch prior seasons of behind-the-scenes docuseries Drive to Survive. The season focusing on the 2024 races will not premier until March of 2025. The end of the Formula 1 season is always sad and emotional, but this one is going to feel heartbreaking as we say goodbye to the grid I began with.
