"Formula 1" (or Formula One) is easily the most popular car racing competition in the world and has earned the unofficial title of the "the Pinnacle of Motorsport." The first races began in 1948, and the first championship with official points allocation based on results of Grand Prix was held in 1950. Today, Formula 1 is recognized as the premier racing series in the world of motorsport, with the highest budgets and largest fan base.
Throughout its long and vibrant history, the regulations of Formula 1 have undergone numerous changes. These changes have affected technical aspects, safety measures, and the points allocation system. Nevertheless, considering that each fan has their favorite among both drivers and teams, the points allocation system has always been of special interest to the public. After all, the season's winner is determined by the accumulated points.
Sometimes, controversial decisions were made. Occasionally, judges rightfully awarded "controversial" points, while at other times they unjustly revoked them, sparking a storm of emotions among F1 fans, drivers, and participating teams.
However, recently Formula 1 has adopted the practice of awarding additional points from other racing series. For setting the fastest lap in a race, if the driver with the fastest time finishes within the top 10, they receive an additional point (which can be crucial in the season's outcome). Yet, the sprint races held outside the framework of the qualification stage generate more public interest.
- The sprint race involves a 100-kilometer race within the framework of the qualification.
- The distance may vary based on the length of the track, but the time limit remains unchanged - 1 hour.
- The drivers start in the order determined by the results of the second practice session.
- Points are also awarded to drivers based on the results of the sprint race, after which the qualification takes place.
In 2021, the top three leaders received points from three points for first place to one point for third place. The winner of the sprint race received the pole position. However, in 2022, the race management introduced a more interesting decision to motivate the drivers. Now, points are allocated in descending order to the top eight drivers, with the driver in first place receiving eight points, the second seven, and so on.
This decision is partly connected to the fact that the new technical regulations of 2022 have created a tighter competition, reducing the gaps between top teams, mid-field teams, and underdogs, increasing the chances for all racing teams to earn points.
It was announced that in the current 2022 season, there will be 3 sprints held in Austria, Emilia-Romagna, and Brazil, although initially there were plans for 7-8 races. The pole position is now awarded based on the results of the qualification session, not the sprint race (as was the case in the 2021 season).
Considering the "freshness" of the new technical regulations and the introduction of new power units starting with the upcoming season, we can expect more sprints and innovations.
