Formula 1

Red Bull Racing’s Dutch driver Max Verstappen celebrates his victory at the end of the Formula One Japanese Grand Prix race at the Suzuka circuit in Suzuka, Mie prefecture on April 7, 2024. Image: Yuichi YAMAZAKI / AFP

Formula 1’s game-changing points system for 2025

Formula 1 set to revolutionise points system in 2025, expanding to top 12 finishers and encouraging closer competition throughout the grid.

Formula 1

Red Bull Racing’s Dutch driver Max Verstappen celebrates his victory at the end of the Formula One Japanese Grand Prix race at the Suzuka circuit in Suzuka, Mie prefecture on April 7, 2024. Image: Yuichi YAMAZAKI / AFP

Formula 1 is gearing up for a major overhaul of its points system, starting from the 2025 season. The move aims to boost competition and provide a more accurate representation of the sport.

Moreover, the proposed changes come in response to growing concerns about the lack of competition in recent years.

Formula 1 Expands Points-Scoring Positions

Under the new system, the top 12 drivers will score points, up from the current top 10. One of the teams initially put forward the proposal, and it has gained support from most of the grid.

Furthermore, backmarker teams are particularly excited about the potential benefits.

The revised Formula 1 points distribution would look like this:
1st: 25 points
2nd: 18 points
3rd: 15 points
4th: 12 points
5th: 10 points
6th: 8 points
7th: 6 points
8th: 4 points
9th: 2 points
10th: 1 point
11th: 0.5 points
12th: 0.25 points

Fierce Midfield Battles

The 2022 regulation changes and cost cap aimed to level the playing field and promote closer racing. However, the front of the grid has seen a decline in competition.

In contrast, the midfield battles have become increasingly intense, with teams separated by the smallest of margins. Additionally, the new Formula 1 points system seeks to recognise and reward these thrilling battles.

Visa Cash App Red Bull team principal, Laurent Mekies, recently stressed the importance of change. He stated, “Even the bottom five teams are large organisations now. It’s very difficult to explain to the outside world, to our partners, and to our fans, that we battle for a P11 that grants zero points.”

Encouraging Closer Competition

The proposed changes to the Formula 1 points system aim to encourage closer competition throughout the grid. They will also reward the efforts of drivers and teams who may not always be in the spotlight.

By recognising the top 12 finishers, the new system would provide a more comprehensive representation of the sport. Moreover, it will incentivise teams to push harder at every position.

The Future of Formula 1

As Formula 1 continues to evolve, the proposed points system overhaul marks a significant step towards a more competitive and engaging future.

With the support of teams and drivers, the sport will enter a new era of close racing and thrilling battles. This will ensure that fans remain captivated by the action on and off the track.