F1 basics

Start here to understand how a Formula 1 weekend works, how points are scored, and why tyres, strategy, and qualifying decide so much of what you see on Sunday.

Formula 1 cars on the starting grid
F1 cars on the starting grid · Image © via skysports.com

What is a Grand Prix weekend?

A race weekend usually runs from Friday to Sunday and includes practice, qualifying, and the Grand Prix itself, with some events also featuring a shorter Sprint race.

  • Practice sessions to dial in the car.
  • Qualifying to set the starting grid.
  • Grand Prix on Sunday for championship points.
Typical race start at Turn 1
Typical race start at Turn 1 · F1 Image © via media.formula1.com

How do points work?

Drivers and teams score points based on their finishing positions in each race, with extra points coming from Sprint results.

  • Top finishers earn the most points.
  • Both Drivers' and Constructors' Championships run in parallel.
  • Consistency over the season is usually more important than one big win.
Podium celebrations at a Grand Prix
Podium celebrations at a Grand Prix · F1 Image © via gtplanet.net

Tyres, strategy & pit stops

Teams use different tyre compounds and carefully timed pit stops to balance grip and durability, which is why strategy can win or lose a race.

  • Soft tyres are faster but wear quicker.
  • Harder tyres last longer but can be slower.
  • Mandatory pit stops and tyre rules shape race strategy.
High-speed pit stop in action
High-speed pit stop in action · F1 Image © via nytimes.com

Flags & key terms

Different coloured flags and common phrases like DRS, safety car, and undercut explain what is happening on track at any moment.

  • Yellow flag: slow down, danger ahead.
  • Safety car: field bunches up behind a lead car.
  • DRS: a system that opens a flap to reduce drag on certain straights.
F1 race flags and names
Know your flags · F1 Image © via f1mavericks.com


For a full list of flags and many more racing terms, see the FAQs & Glossary →

Next steps

Once you are comfortable with the basics, head over to the Teams page to meet the current grid and see who is fighting for this year's championships.

Go to teams