Formula 1 weekend explained

The Grand Prix weekend is the term used to describe the three-day event that takes place in each location on the Formula 1 calender.

The F1 weekend structure

The Grand Prix weekend is structured around the following main events:

• Free practice: these sessions allow the drivers and teams to get a feel for the track and to fine-tune their setups for qualifing and the race. There are typically 3 sessions in the weekend; 2 on friday and one on saturday. With the exception of weekends with a sprint.
• Qualification: this is the session that determines the starting order for the main race, known as the Grand Prix. The qualifying session is divided into three parts, known as Q1, Q2, and Q3 and typically takes place on Saturday.
• Grand Prix or race: this is the main event of the weekend, and is the race that determines the winner of the Grand Prix. The race typically lasts for around two hours and consists of a certain number of laps around the track and takes place on Sunday.
• Sprint: the sprint format is used in addition to the traditional Grand Prix weekend format and is only used in select races during the season.

F1 minor events

Post-race: There is a podium ceremony where the trophies are awarded and there are (short) interviews with the top three finishers. After the race, there are typically debriefing sessions where the teams and drivers review the race and analyse data, events and strategies.

In addition to these main events, there are also various other activities that take place over the course of the race weekend, such as driver interviews, media events, sponsor activities, and team meetings.