The Top 10 Get Points
After every race, points are awarded to the top 10 finishers. The breakdown: 1st = 25 pts, 2nd = 18 pts, 3rd = 15 pts, 4th = 12 pts, 5th = 10 pts, 6th = 8 pts, 7th = 6 pts, 8th = 4 pts, 9th = 2 pts, 10th = 1 pt.
There is also a bonus point available for the driver who sets the fastest lap during the race — but only if they finish in the top 10. This creates extra drama at the end of races as drivers push for that extra point.
Drivers AND Constructors
There are two separate championships running at the same time. The Drivers' Championship is won by the driver with the most points at the end of the season. The Constructors' Championship is won by the team — both drivers' points combined. A team can win the Constructors' title even if neither of their drivers wins the Drivers' title.
Bonus Points on Sprint Weekends
At 6 race weekends per season, there is also a Sprint race on Saturday — a shorter race of about 100km. The top 8 finishers score bonus points: 1st = 8 pts, 2nd = 7 pts, 3rd = 6 pts... down to 8th = 1 pt. These points can make a real difference in the championship battle.
The points gap matters more than wins. A driver who finishes 2nd consistently can beat a driver who wins some races but also DNFs (Did Not Finish). Consistency is everything.
L'écart de points compte plus que les victoires. Un pilote qui finit régulièrement 2ème peut battre un pilote qui gagne parfois mais abandonne aussi. La régularité, c'est tout.
2025 is the perfect example. Norris won less races than Verstappen but was more consistent. He took the title by 2 points. That's why you never write anyone off until the maths is impossible.
2025 est l'exemple parfait. Norris a gagné moins de courses que Verstappen mais était plus régulier. Il a pris le titre avec 2 points d'avance. C'est pourquoi on n'écrit jamais personne off tant que les maths sont impossibles.