Understanding Formula One Racing

Formula One racing is the most popular motor sport in the world. The rules governing Formula One racing are complex but it is not necessary to know or understand every detail of the regulations to enjoy the sport.

Formula One racing as it is today evolved from European Grand Prix racing of the early 1900s. Although it is still considered a European sport, more of each season's World Championship events are held at locations outside of Europe than in Europe itself. The top Formula One racing teams do have European home bases.

Formula One racing is the most regulated in all of auto racing. Restrictions are placed on every component of the vehicles. Constructors must be innovative in order to build a vehicle that will out-perform the other Formula One racing cars and yet meet all the FIA (International Automobile Federation) guidelines.

The dangerous conditions of high speed racing led FIA to institute detailed safety regulations that impact every aspect from vehicle construction to the type of fabric used to create the driver's clothing.

Each race is held at a different location. Some locations have traditionally always been part of Formula One racing. Monte Carlo is the perfect example. The Monaco Grand Prix held at Monte Carlo has become synonymous with Formula One racing because it is always part of the series. Originally Formula One racing Grand Prix were held on closed public streets and the Monaco Grand Prix continues to follow this tradition. Newer venues around the world, like the one at Bahrain, are held on tracks that have been designed specifically to meet the needs of Formula One racing. Teams must transport their vehicles, equipment and spare parts to each race.

A Formula One racing team may enter up to two drivers and cars into each race. FIA has written guidelines regarding how the cars are painted. Both of a team's cars are similar in appearance but distinguishable.

The World Championship season in Formula One racing lasts from early spring through fall each year. Races are three-day events with qualifying and testing run on Friday and Saturday. Qualification runs are timed sessions. Starting position is based on performance during these qualification sessions.

A race day in Formula One racing is a loud, fast-paced, high-energy time for drivers, teams and spectators. The race consists of multiple laps around the circuit. This is true whether the race is held on public streets or on a racetrack. A special area alongside of the track is designated as the pit area. The pits are where teams perform work on their cars. Every car will need fuel added and tires replaced during the race. Additional parts will also need to be repaired or replaced. Pit crews are well known for their speed.

Formula One racing marshals use flags to communicate to drivers during a race. In addition to the flags, a GPS system in each car indicates any current flag waving for the section of track the car is on at the time.

Formula One racing awards a World Championship title on one driver and one team each season. At the end of each race the top drivers are awarded points based on their final ranking. Teams earn points for each of the two cars they have entered in the race. At the end of the season the driver and team with the most points are declared World Champions.