The Formula 1 standings are updated at the end of every race and the top ten drivers receive points for finishing in that position. In addition to that, drivers get points for fastest lap, a bonus point is awarded for completing at least 75 per cent of the scheduled race distance and if the race is shortened, teams are still awarded full points as long as a minimum of two racing laps have been completed.
As well as being important for the drivers, who compete for the World Drivers Championship and a potential bonus cheque at the end of the season, the battles for a Constructors Championship are also hugely significant. Teams (Alpine, Aston Martin, BMW, Ferrari, Haas, Honda, McLaren, Mercedes, Renault, Red Bull and Sauber) compete for a title that recognises their combined efforts in the car’s design and development, engine, pit crew, strategy, race tactics and – of course – drivers.
Team fights to win the constructors title are fairly common and have been responsible for some dramatic finishes. For example, in 2007, Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton finished dead heat in the title race but it was McLaren who won the championship thanks to a superior number of second place finishes.
While the world drivers’ title has a more prestigious name – and captures more media attention – winning a Constructors’ Championship is still very much the goal of all Formula 1 teams. This not only offers a substantial financial bonus but also gives the team considerable bragging rights and perhaps a little more garage space at the next Grand Prix!