Formula 1 is a sport that has evolved since Bernie Ecclestone revolutionized its commercial structure, but its ranking system remains at the heart of every Grand Prix. The modern system prioritizes the teams and drivers that can get to the top of the podium – while also dangling the carrot of lucrative prize money for those who might not be quite as fast.
The rankings are calculated by awarding points to the top ten finishers in each race, with 25 for the winner. A driver’s individual points accumulate throughout the season, while a team’s points are combined from two drivers on each car. The Driver and Constructor standings are then ranked at the end of each season to determine champions.
Despite the sport’s focus on driving excellence, there are some very dramatic circumstances that could see a title decided by the narrowest of margins. For example, Ferrari clinched the 1964 championship by just three points, beating BRM across a ten-race season. In more modern times a countback process has been introduced to settle any tie, and this is often the deciding factor at the bottom of the table, where small differences in point scoring can mean the difference between financial ruin and staying afloat.
Teams are also pushed to work together for the best possible result, as a good team battle is vital to success on the track. This can be as simple as letting a team mate pass during a race, or as complex as devising an optimum strategy that benefits both drivers in the same way.