Formula 1 is a global spectacle of speed, strategy and engineering excellence. It is a sport where the coveted top ten places are worth millions in prize money. With such a significant amount on the line, it is not surprising that Formula 1 standings are so closely watched by fans and participants alike. But how are F1 standings calculated and what is their significance?
The FIA Formula One World Drivers Championship and FIA Formula One World Constructors Championship standings are key indicators of the overall performance of drivers and teams in the sport. These rankings are calculated based on the total points earned by the team and its driver in each Grand Prix and Sprint race of the season.
A solitary driver is awarded 25 points for each race they finish in the top ten, while the team receives 40 points when both its drivers score in the top ten. The driver with the most points at the end of the season is crowned the world champion.
The battles between rivals at the top of the standings are fierce, and have a major impact on how teams compete during the season. It is not uncommon for the coveted title to be decided by a single point. Such was the case in 2007 when Kimi Raikkonen edged out Lewis Hamilton for the title, while in 1986 it was Alain Prost edging out Nigel Mansell and Nelson Piquet for the championship.