Formula 1’s blend of tradition and futurism captivates millions around the world. With regulations constantly evolving to accommodate greener practices and novel challenges, the sport continues to evolve and expand in exhilarating ways. But one thing that hasn’t changed is the importance of ranking systems to determine champions in both Driver and Constructor Championships.
In each race, drivers and teams earn F1 points based on their finishing position. The team and the individual with the most points at the end of the season are named champions. But how exactly are these points earned, and what makes them so important?
Drivers earn most of their points by finishing in the top ten of every completed race. They also gain points by participating in qualifying, securing pole position (first place on the starting grid) and earning a podium finish (first, second or third place). In addition, a bonus point is awarded to the fastest lap of each race.
The FIA Formula 1 World Constructors’ Championship recognises the collective performance of the entire team – from the engineering of the car to its strategy and pit crew, all the way up to the driver(s). The constructor with the most points at the end of the year is crowned champions.
As such, the Constructors’ Championship is often more competitive than the Drivers’ Championship and there have been 12 occasions when the drivers’ champion has come from a team different to the constructors’ champions. Interestingly, Mercedes have won the championship the most times in the past 20 years with eight titles, while Ferrari and Williams are tied on 16 wins each.
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