How do you become F1 world champion?

This formula 1 championship definitions section provides the way the F1 championship outcomes are calculated for each season.

The champion

The driver with the most points at the end of the season under the championship rules and based on the F1 points system for that year is the F1 world champion; this is typically called the F1 standings.
The F1 Championship calendar consists of a series of races known as grand prix, which are held at circuits around the world. The number of races in a season varies from year to year. Currently upwards of 23 events.

In addition to the points awarded to drivers, points are also awarded to the constructors (teams) based on the finishing positions of their cars. The constructors' championship is calculated by adding up the points earned by both drivers from each team over the course of the season.

The points system for the F1 Championship has undergone several changes over the years, but currently, the points are awarded as follows:

• 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

With a point for the fastest lap. Also during sprint events points are awarded.

Championship rules throughout history

Typically not all results were used in calculating the F1 championship in the past. This could have a real impact, like in 1988 when Ayrton Senna became champion with less points overall than Alain Prost.
If two drivers finish the season with the same amount of points, their position in the championship will be based on the amount of each position they achieved. So first who has the most number of wins, then second places, then third places and so on.