Aaaaaaah, the Formula 1, the pinnacle of motorsport, the highest form of racing on four wheels, and arguably one of the most popular sports in the world. While some argue that motor racing was born the day the second car was built, there is something about Formula 1 that makes it so attractive and fascinating, yet so far removed from traditional autosport.

An exciting mix of cutting-edge technology, glamour, adrenaline and luxury, Formula 1 is not just a sport, but a high-end marketing platform, a top-notch business suite and a never-fading red carpet for celebrities and the wealthy.

It is therefore not surprising that brands from around the world have always lined up at the doors of teams and organizations to strike multimillion-dollar sponsorship deals in Formula 1. Since the 1960s, F1 has shared its path with the world’s largest companies and industries and brands, starting with tobacco and moving on to banks, carriers, technology companies, and now Forex traders and cryptocurrency brands.

Formula 1 rules and the importance of competitiveness

Some say that much of Formula 1’s charm and beauty comes from its internal difficulties, the many details of a highly structured rulebook, and the challenges posed by a game that is more strategic and tactical than based on the brute force of more than 1,000 horsepower. Others think that racing has become too complex and far removed from its purest idea, which should basically be based on “let’s see the fastest car from here to there.” DRS, MGUs, tire compounds, dual strategies, wake turbulence, and other such gizmos might be every engineer’s wild dream, but they can drive the casual fan away.

Underlying this eternal debate is, of course, the need for increasing competitiveness. A closer field is more fun to watch, more attractive to F1 sponsors, and creates an electrifying narrative. This is music to the ears of sports marketing agencies, sales offices and agents worldwide.

However, there is no denying that Formula 1 can be a difficult sport for beginners to watch, as there is a lot to understand and a lot to do at the same time. So let’s try to shed some light on the matter and list the most common questions about Formula 1 racing and all the information you always wanted to know.

How long does a Formula 1 race last?

Formula 1 races are about 305km long and last an average of 90 minutes with the exception of Monaco whose length is limited to 260km (the duration cannot exceed 3 hours for safety reasons if there is a break). The number of laps obviously depends on the length of the track. F1 cars must go around Monaco 78 times, for example, while it takes only 44 laps of the Circuit de Spa Francorchamps to complete the Belgian Grand Prix.

How do points work in Formula 1?

Points in Formula 1 are awarded according to the final position of the driver-for the drivers’ championship- and both team drivers -for the constructors’ world championship. The Grand Prix winner is awarded 25 points, 18 to the 2nd, 15 to the 3rd, 12 to the 4th, 10 to the 5th, 8 to the 6th, 6 to the 7th, 4 to the 8th, 2 to the 9th and 1 point for the 10th position. No points are awarded for drivers from 11th to last position. Starting with the 2021 Formula 1 season, 1 additional point is awarded to the holder of the fastest lap of the race if he/she manages to finish in the top 10.

How many races are there in an F1 season?

A calendar of 22 races is planned for the 2021 season, with possible variations due to the effects of the COVID pandemic and/or circuit homologation. The season began on the sands of Bahrain on March 28 and will end, as always, in Abu Dhabi‘s Yes Marina.

How many drivers and teams are there in Formula 1?

20 drivers take to the grid each race weekend, two drivers from each team. However, this season there are currently 21 drivers listed as Grand Prix participants sinceAlfa Romeo ‘s Robert Kubica replaced Kimi Raikkonen for a few races during the season.

How does F1 qualifying work?

F1 qualifying sessions are divided into three parts, called “Qs.” During each Q, drivers try to record the fastest lap time with the 5 slowest drivers being eliminated. The final Q then sees the 10 fastest drivers of the afternoon battle it out for pole position, meaning that the fastest driver of the afternoon will start from the first position on the grid on Sunday.

What is a Formula 1 pit stop?

Pit stops occur during races when a driver enters the pit lane area and stops the car in front of the garage, allowing engineers and mechanics to perform tire changes or other modifications. Refueling is prohibited in modern Formula 1 racing, while the rules authorize modifications or tuning of wings.

Are Formula 1 cars 4-wheel drive?

No, Formula 1 cars are not all-wheel drive: all the cars on the grid are rear-wheel drive. Only 8 manufacturers since the 1950s have tried all-wheel drive in Formula 1, with very poor results.
Article 9.2.1 Transmission type, of the latest F1 technical rules “FORMULA 1 TECHNICAL REGULATIONS” published on February 19, 2022 states:
The transmission may only drive the two rear wheels. Formula 1 cars therefore can only have rear-wheel drive.

Who is the current Formula 1 champion?

Max Verstappen of Team Red Bull is the current Formula 1 champion.
The Dutchman managed to prevail over Lewis Hamilton in a heart-stopping finale. This is the first Title for Max who will have to contend with Hamilton in the coming years, The British driver has won 7 world titles and is, with Michael Schumacher the most successful athlete in the sport.

Is Formula 1 faster than NASCAR?

Yes, Formula 1 is faster than Nascar. Thanks to better aerodynamics, lighter weight and a more efficient engine, it can reach top speeds of 372 km/h (Valtteri Bottas at the Mexican Grand Prix). On the acceleration front, F1 cars go from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.5 seconds, while a Nascar takes 3.4 seconds to reach the same speed. Where F1 single-seaters really shine, thanks to state-of-the-art engineering, are cornering speeds.

Who sponsors Formula 1?

Well-known companies and brands from around the world sponsor Formula 1. From Rolex to Aramco, DHL to Heineken to many others. The F1 organization can count on several premium partners, who benefit from international visibility, high-level B2B and B2C opportunities, and many activation possibilities.

Are Formula 1 cars hybrids?

Yes, the current Formula 1 cars are powered by V6 Turbo Hybrid engines. Two Energy Recovery Systems, one for kinetic energy and one for thermal energy, are operating simultaneously, contributing to “traditional” combustion technology.

How much do F1 cars cost?

It is difficult to guess since almost every single component on an F1 single-seater is custom designed and manufactured by the teams themselves and therefore unique. However, several magazines suggest that the price tag for a midfield car could range from € 10 to € 12 million. The steering wheel alone is said to be about €95,000

How many wins does Lewis Hamilton have?

Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton won his 100th race at the 2021 Russian Grand Prix in Sochi, becoming the first driver in F1 history to reach such an impressive milestone.

In conclusion

Formula 1 is a complex and exciting platform. More than a sport, it is the pinnacle of the automotive industry, the dream world for every motorsport enthusiast. It is also a perfect base for building new business, entertaining your guests, interacting with audiences around the world, and producing an exciting narrative. If you are curious about how your company could use Formula 1 to grow and do business, contact us today at info@rtrsport.com