Introduction
Formula 1, the pinnacle of motorsport, captivates millions with its high-octane action, intricate strategy, and fierce rivalries. As we reflect on the thrilling 2024 season and eagerly anticipate the 2025 F1 season, this post aims to break down the final 2024 F1 standings, explain the complex points system, and offer predictions for the upcoming year.
Key drivers like Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, and Lewis Hamilton, alongside constructors such as McLaren, Red Bull, Ferrari, and Mercedes, continue to shape the narrative of this exhilarating sport.
F1 racing at its finest: close racing action on the track.
2024 Final F1 Standings
The 2025 F1 season is set to begin with pre-season testing in February and the Australian Grand Prix in March. The most recent definitive standings are from the conclusion of the 2024 season, which saw some incredible performances and nail-biting finishes.
2024 Final Driver Standings
Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing) secured his fourth consecutive title, a testament to his consistent dominance.
| Pos | Driver | Team | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull Racing | 437 |
| 2 | Lando Norris | McLaren | 374 |
| 3 | Charles Leclerc | Ferrari | 356 |
| 4 | Oscar Piastri | McLaren | 292 |
| 5 | Carlos Sainz | Ferrari | 290 |
| 6 | George Russell | Mercedes | 245 |
| 7 | Lewis Hamilton | Mercedes | 223 |
| 8 | Sergio Perez | Red Bull Racing | 152 |
Visual breakdown of the 2024 F1 Driver Championship, featuring Max Verstappen’s victory.
2024 Final Constructor Standings
McLaren secured the Constructors’ Championship, marking their second consecutive title and tenth overall. This victory was largely attributed to their exceptional car development and the strong performance of their driver lineup, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
| Pos | Constructor | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | McLaren | 666 |
| 2 | Ferrari | 652 |
| 3 | Red Bull Racing | 589 |
| 4 | Mercedes-Benz AMG | 468 |
Decoding the F1 Points System
Understanding how points are awarded is crucial to appreciating the F1 standings. Points are distributed for both Grand Prix races and sprint races, with specific rules for shortened events.
Grand Prix Race Points System (since 2010)
| Place | Points |
|---|---|
| 1st Place | 25 points |
| 2nd Place | 18 points |
| 3rd Place | 15 points |
| 4th Place | 12 points |
| 5th Place | 10 points |
| 6th Place | 8 points |
| 7th Place | 6 points |
| 8th Place | 4 points |
| 9th Place | 2 points |
| 10th Place | 1 point |
The Fastest Lap Bonus, which historically awarded an extra point if the driver finished in the top 10, has been abolished from the 2025 season onwards, simplifying the scoring slightly.
A clear guide to how F1 Grand Prix points are awarded.
Sprint Race Points System (as of 2025 regulations)
As of 2025 regulations, points are awarded to the top eight finishers in sprint races. These points are crucial for both driver and constructor standings.
- 1st Place: 8 points
- 2nd Place: 7 points
- 3rd Place: 6 points
- 4th Place: 5 points
- 5th Place: 4 points
- 6th Place: 3 points
- 7th Place: 2 points
- 8th Place: 1 point
It’s important to note that points are only awarded if the race leader completes more than 50% of the sprint distance.
Points for Shortened Races
In cases of shortened races due to unforeseen circumstances, a modified points scale is applied:
- Less than two laps completed: No points.
- More than two laps but less than 25% of race distance: Top five finishers (6-4-3-2-1 scale).
- More than 25% but less than 50% of race distance: Top nine finishers (13-10-8-6-5-4-3-2-1 scale).
- At least 50% but less than 75% of race distance: Top ten finishers (19-14-12-9-8-6-5-3-2-1 scale).
- 75% or more of race distance completed: Full points awarded.
To be classified as a finisher and receive points, a driver must complete 90% of the distance covered by the winner.
Championship Glory
F1 features two primary championships: the World Drivers’ Championship and the World Constructors’ Championship, each with its own rules for scoring and tie-breaking.
World Drivers’ Championship (WDC)
The WDC awards the individual driver with the most points accumulated throughout the season. In the event of a tie, it’s broken by countback, prioritizing wins, then second places, and so on. Points scored by a driver remain with them even if they change teams mid-season.
World Constructors’ Championship (WCC)
The WCC recognizes the best team. Points from both drivers of a constructor are combined to determine the team’s total. A team can earn a maximum of 44 points in a single Grand Prix (25 for 1st, 18 for 2nd, plus sprint points). Like the WDC, ties are broken by countback. Interestingly, points scored by a driver remain with their previous team for the WCC if they change teams.
Iconic F1 Records
Formula 1’s rich history is filled with legendary achievements. Here are some of the most iconic records:
- Most World Drivers’ Championships: Jointly held by Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton (7 titles each).
- Most Grand Prix Wins (Drivers): Lewis Hamilton (105), Michael Schumacher (91), Max Verstappen (68).
- Most Pole Positions (Drivers): Lewis Hamilton (104), Michael Schumacher (68), Ayrton Senna (65).
- Most World Constructors’ Championships: Scuderia Ferrari (16), McLaren (10), Williams (9), Mercedes (8). Notably, Mercedes holds a record of eight consecutive titles (2014-2021).
Regulations Shaping F1 Standings
F1 is a sport constantly evolving, with regulations playing a pivotal role in shaping team performance and championship outcomes. Understanding the impact of these rules is key to comprehending the F1 standings.
Technical Regulations
Changes to car design rules directly impact performance. The 2022 reintroduction of ground effect aerodynamics, for instance, was interpreted exceptionally well by Red Bull Racing with their dominant RB19. Similarly, the 2014 hybrid era, introducing 1.6L V6 turbo-hybrid engines, propelled Mercedes to an era of unprecedented success. Other significant overhauls include the 2009 aerodynamic rules and the 2017 wider car regulations, all designed to influence racing dynamics and competition.
Sporting Regulations
These rules govern race procedures, scoring, and penalties. Examples include the refuelling ban in 2010, which dramatically altered race strategies, and multiple points system changes over the years. Penalties, ranging from grid drops to time additions, can directly alter race results and, consequently, the F1 standings.
Financial Regulations
The budget cap, introduced in 2021, is a landmark regulation aimed at promoting financial sustainability and competitive parity by limiting team spending. Breaches of this cap can result in severe penalties, including fines or even points deductions, directly impacting a team’s championship aspirations.
Anticipation for the 2025 F1 Season
The 2025 season is expected to be thrilling, with early predictions and trending discussions already setting the stage for intense battles.
Driver Standings (Top Contenders Predicted)
- Lando Norris (McLaren): Expected to be a strong contender, building on his 2024 performance.
- Oscar Piastri (McLaren): Anticipated to challenge at the front, forming a formidable duo with Norris.
- Max Verstappen (Red Bull): Expected to be in the hunt for another title, despite increasing competition.
- George Russell (Mercedes): Poised to lead Mercedes, potentially alongside rising star Kimi Antonelli.
- Charles Leclerc (Ferrari): Aiming for consistent podiums and wins, a key figure for Ferrari’s championship hopes.
Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari Move: A Game Changer for 2025
The highly anticipated move of Lewis Hamilton to Ferrari for 2025 is undoubtedly the biggest talking point of the upcoming season. This transfer is set to be a game-changer, bringing a seven-time world champion to the iconic Scuderia. It promises to ignite new rivalries, reshape team dynamics at both Ferrari and Mercedes, and add an electrifying dimension to the championship battle. The implications for Ferrari’s constructor challenge and Hamilton’s pursuit of an unprecedented eighth title will be closely watched by fans worldwide.
Constructor Standings (Predicted Battles)
- McLaren: Predicted front-runner for the Constructors’ Championship, aiming for a third consecutive title.
- Mercedes: Aiming to reclaim the top spot with a new lineup and renewed focus.
- Red Bull: Remains a formidable force, expected to be a strong contender despite potential point drops in some scenarios.
- Ferrari: Expected to be a major championship contender with the powerful lineup of Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc.
- Williams: Mentioned as a team looking to make significant strides and challenge for higher positions.
Conclusion
The F1 world is dynamic, with standings constantly evolving and each season bringing new drama. The 2024 season concluded with Max Verstappen as the Drivers’ Champion and McLaren dominating the Constructors’ Championship.
The 2025 season is anticipated to feature thrilling showdowns involving Lando Norris, the highly anticipated arrival of Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari, and strong competition from Red Bull, Mercedes, and Ferrari. Understanding the intricacies of standings, points systems, and historical records truly enhances appreciation for this incredible sport.
What are your predictions for the 2025 F1 season? Share your thoughts and join the discussion!
About the Author
