The race
The start, the distance, the finish and what the result codes mean.
The Race is the main event: the session where drivers score full points.
Before the start
- The cars leave the pits and take a formation lap to warm up their tyres.
- They line up on the grid in qualifying order, two by two.
- Five red lights come on one by one. When they go out, the race starts.
How long is a race?
A race runs for about 305 kilometres, which is roughly 45 to 80 laps depending on how long the circuit is. Monaco is shorter (about 260 km). There is also a two-hour time limit, and a three-hour limit if the race is stopped and restarted.
During the race
- Drivers can make pit stops to change tyres. There is no refuelling. See race strategy.
- The Safety Car and flags control the race when there's danger. See flags.
- The stewards can add time or take positions away. See penalties and the stewards.
The finish
The first car across the line when the chequered flag falls wins. A driver shown as +1 LAP was lapped by the winner. Results use these codes:
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| DNF | Did not finish (a crash, breakdown or retirement) |
| DNS | Did not start |
| DSQ | Disqualified |
The top 10 score points (see points and championships) and the top three go on the podium. Since 2025 there is no bonus point for the fastest lap.
Sprint races
A sprint is a short race (about 100 km, around 30 minutes) held on the Saturday of a sprint weekend. Only the top 8 score points, and a sprint win doesn't count as a Grand Prix win.