Formula 1 scoring
In the exciting world of Formula 1, points are invaluable. So it is important to know about points distribution. Today, we dive deeper into Formula 1’s points rules, not only how they are earned, but also how you can lose them. What do these rules mean for the world championship? From regular races to sprint races and even penalty points, we unravel the complex world of Formula 1 points.
How many Formula 1 points per race? The distribution
Every Grand Prix race is all about points. The faster you cross the finish line, the more points you rake in. In total, points are available to the top ten drivers each race. Drivers outside the top unfortunately miss out and have not earned any points from the race.
| Location | Points |
| #1 | 25 |
| #2 | 18 |
| #3 | 15 |
| #4 | 12 |
| #5 | 10 |
| #6 | 8 |
| #7 | 6 |
| #8 | 4 |
| #9 | 2 |
| #10 | 1 |
| Fastest lap | 1 |
TIEBREAK: TIE
What if two drivers have equal points at the end of the season? Then the tie-break rule comes into play. Here, the number of wins is considered. If that is also equal, other positions in the races are considered to determine the winner. A tie-break has happened before, e.g. in 1958 Mike Hawthorn and Stirling Moss finished with an equal number of points. Because Moss had won 1 more race, he walked away with the world title. And sometimes it doesn’t make much difference, Max Verstappen fans know all about that.
POINTS FOR THE FASTEST LAP
Since 2020, a bonus point can be earned for the driver who sets the fastest lap, but only if they finish in the top 10. It adds an extra element of competition to the races. Teams often handle this tactically, so they can snatch pits from competitors.
SCORING IN SPRINT RACES
Sprint racing was introduced in 2021 to make Formula 1 more exciting and attractive. F1 wants to offer more racing action and add new strategic and competitive elements to the race weekend. Sprint races also involve point scoring, with the top eight drivers in the sprint race earning points.
| Location | Points |
| #1 | 8 |
| #2 | 7 |
| #3 | 6 |
| #4 | 5 |
| #5 | 4 |
| #6 | 3 |
| #7 | 2 |
| #8 | 1 |
POINTS FOR INCOMPLETE RACES
Not every race goes as planned. For instance, a race may be ended early due to bad or even dangerous weather. Heavy rain, for example, can lead to heavy crashes. If a race ends prematurely, drivers can only earn partial points depending on the race percentage completed. This only matters if more than 2 laps were completed in the race.
F1 PENALTY POINTS: CONSEQUENCES AND RULES
Penalty points matter a lot in Formula 1, and drivers must be careful not to accumulate too many of them. What are the rules and consequences? Penalty points are handed out when drivers break rules, think dangerous driving or ignoring flag signals. These points play a crucial role in the excitement of the sport. Penalty points remain on a driver’s licence record for 12 months. If a driver accumulates 12 penalty points within a 12-month period, the consequence is one race suspension. Want more car news now? Then be sure to see our other blogs.
