Formula 1: A beginner's guide to thrilling weekends

Welcome to the exhilarating world of Formula 1, the pinnacle of motorsport where cutting-edge technology meets the ultimate driving skill. Whether you're a curious newcomer or a casual fan looking to deepen your understanding, this beginner's guide will take you through the essentials of F1. 

From the high-speed thrills of race day to the intricate strategies behind pit stops and tyre choices, we'll break down everything you need to know to fully appreciate the excitement and complexity of Formula 1 racing. Buckle up and get ready to immerse yourself in the fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled universe of F1.

What is Formula 1?

Formula One, or F1, is the pinnacle of international auto racing, featuring single-seat, open-wheel, and open-cockpit cars. Originating in Europe during the 1920s and 1930s, F1 became standardized by the FIA in 1946, leading to the first World Drivers’ Championship in 1950. 

All about F1 teams and drivers

In Formula One, participants are teams, not individuals. Each team has hundreds of technicians, engineers, and support staff. Including designers and assembly workers, some teams have over a thousand employees. 

For the 2024 season, there are ten teams, each with two cars. The rules allow a maximum of 26 cars, meaning up to 13 teams could compete during a GP. A Formula One team includes all entities involved in designing and producing the car, holding intellectual rights. For instance, if one company designs the chassis and another supplies the engine, together they form the team, like Benetton-Ford or Williams-Renault.

Meanwhile, F1 drivers are as fit as top athletes, with high stamina and quick reflexes. Racing is physically and mentally demanding, so drivers focus on staying in peak physical condition. Drivers experience strong G-forces, especially during acceleration and sharp turns, reaching up to 6G. To handle this, drivers work hard to strengthen their neck muscles and overall endurance.

Here is the list of teams and drivers for the 2024 season:

What is an F1 circuit?

A Formula One circuit is a looped track approved for F1 racing by the FIA. It usually starts with a straight section and includes various turns and corners, mostly running clockwise. The few circuits that run anticlockwise are tougher on drivers because of the G-forces.

Races typically last about 2 hours, covering an average distance of 305 km (190 miles), but this can vary depending on the track. Each lap is one complete round of the circuit, and races are set by the number of laps.

For instance, the Monaco circuit is slower and shorter, with a total race distance of 260 km (161.7 miles) and a track length of 3.34 km (2.075 miles). In contrast, the average circuit length is around 5 km (3.1 miles), but Spa-Francorchamps is notably longer at 7 km (4.352 miles).

How does an F1 weekend work?

A typical Formula 1 weekend spans three days: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. On Friday, teams have two 60-minute Free Practice sessions (FP1 and FP2) to set up their cars and make adjustments. Saturday includes a final practice session (FP3) followed by a three-stage qualifying session. 

In Q1, the slowest five drivers are eliminated after 18 minutes, and five more are out after the 15-minute Q2 segment, setting positions 20-11. The 12-minute Q3 determines the top 10 grid spots and pole position. Sunday is race day, where drivers compete for points, podium places, and the win.

What is a Sprint race?

The Sprint is a short race covering 100km, about one-third of a typical Grand Prix, lasting around 30 minutes. This format aims for dynamic racing without mandatory pit stops. A Sprint weekend spans three days, with the Grand Prix as the main event. Sprint Qualifying on Friday afternoon sets the Sprint grid, replacing FP2. The Sprint race occurs on Saturday replacing FP3. 

Some important F1 terms: 

• Pit and Pit Stop: It’s worth noting that pits are temporary garages along the track, assigned by team rankings, with up to twenty mechanics ready to assist drivers. Now, pit stops are crucial for changing tyres, making repairs, and adjustments. However, refuelling is banned in F1. 

• Bottoming Out: When the underside of the car hits the track due to uneven track. 

• Box: A command reminding drivers to make a pit stop.

• Brake Bias: The adjustable balance of braking force between the front and rear wheels.

• DRS: The Drag Reduction System reduces aerodynamic drag to aid overtaking, used only in designated track zones.

• Oversteer/Understeer: Oversteer occurs when the rear wheels lose grip during a turn; understeer happens when the front wheels lose grip, causing a wider turn.

• Chequered Flag: Marks the race's end, with the first driver crossing it declared the winner.

• Yellow Flag: Signals caution, indicating hazards like accidents, debris, or stationary cars on or near the track.

• Single-waved yellow Flag: Requires drivers to slow down and potentially alter their course to avoid a hazard.

• Double-waved Yellow Flag: Indicates a major hazard, prompting drivers to be prepared to stop.

• Green Flag: Clears the track of hazards, allowing drivers to race at full speed.

• Red Flag: Halts the Grand Prix due to severe weather, significant accidents, or unsafe track conditions. When displayed, drivers must cease racing, slow down, and return to the pit lane at the end of their current lap.