New to Formula 1? Here's a comprehensive guide to understanding the sport, from race formats to team dynamics.
Welcome to Formula 1! Whether you discovered the sport through Netflix's Drive to Survive or caught a race at a friend's house, this guide will help you understand what's happening on and off the track.
What is Formula 1?
Formula 1 is the highest class of international racing for single-seater formula racing cars. It's a global championship that visits circuits around the world, combining cutting-edge technology with elite driving skill.
Race Weekend Structure
A typical race weekend spans three days:
Friday — Practice
- FP1 (Free Practice 1): First on-track session. Teams test setups, tire compounds, and gather data.
- FP2 (Free Practice 2): More data gathering, race simulations, and long runs.
Saturday — Qualifying
- Q1: All 20 drivers compete. Bottom 5 are eliminated.
- Q2: Remaining 15 drivers. Bottom 5 eliminated.
- Q3: Top 10 shootout for pole position.
Sunday — Race
The main event. Drivers complete a set number of laps (usually around 300km total distance). Points are awarded to the top 10 finishers.
Points System
| Position | Points |
|---|---|
| 1st | 25 |
| 2nd | 18 |
| 3rd | 15 |
| 4th | 12 |
| 5th | 10 |
| 6th | 8 |
| 7th | 6 |
| 8th | 4 |
| 9th | 2 |
| 10th | 1 |
An additional point is awarded for the fastest lap (if the driver finishes in the top 10).
The Teams
Formula 1 currently has 10 teams, each running two cars. Teams design and build their own cars within the technical regulations.
Key Terms
- DRS (Drag Reduction System) — A movable rear wing flap that reduces drag on straights, helping with overtaking
- Pit Stop — When a car comes into the pit lane to change tires or make adjustments
- Undercut/Overcut — Strategic pit stop timing to gain track position
- Safety Car — Deployed when conditions are dangerous, bunches the field together
- Grid Penalty — Position penalties for rule infractions or component changes
How to Watch in Taiwan
- 愛爾達 ELTA (MOD / Hami Video) — Most complete coverage in 2025
- 緯來體育台 — Cable TV with Chinese commentary
- F1 TV — Requires VPN from Taiwan (geo-restricted)
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