Formula 1 Race Tracks: From History to Present Day

Formula 1, often referred to as Formula 1 or F1, doesn’t really need much introduction. Even if you are not a race buff, you have at the very least heard about the highest class international racing that brings together the best drivers and the fastest cars. Governed by Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), Formula One World Championship first launched in 1950, and has been a premier race event ever since. 

For each season in Formula One, drivers have to complete several races, collectively known as Grand Prix. Points are given to drivers at each race of the season, based on their results. At the end of the season, the accumulated points determine two annual world champions: one for the driver and one for the  team, known  as the constructor. The point system has majorly retained its framework since it was first introduced, however certain changes in point allocation have been made several times throughout the history of the race. Recently, a new proposal has been submitted to develop the point system further, which is currently under consideration.

A total of 77 circuits have been used in Formula One World Championship Grand Prix since 1950. Some of them have only been included in the championship once, while others are recurrent. Most of the ones currently in use have been specifically constructed for the races. Let’s take a look at the Formula 1 race tracks and their specifications.

What Defines Formula 1 Race Tracks

Formula 1 race tracks undergo very strict selection. Only the grade one tracks, which is the highest grade, are allowed to hold the race. As a rule, it includes a straight stretch for the starting grid and the pit lane next to it. Otherwise, the layout may greatly vary. However, most circuits typically have one thing in common: they run in a clockwise direction. Counterclockwise circuits aren’t prohibited, but as they predominantly have left-handed corners, it causes neck problems for the drivers. Currently, very few circuits run in the counterclockwise direction.

Most of the circuits the drivers race on in the modern races were specifically constructed for this purpose. The few street circuits that are still in use include Monaco, Melbourne, Miami, Singapore, and Baku. Although the Monaco circuit doesn’t correspond to the safety requirements imposed on Formula 1 race tracks, it is kept in the race mainly for its historical and reputation value.

World Championship Race Circuits

When describing a Formula One race circuit, several things come into play. These include the type, direction, and number of turns, as well as safety measures. Here is a list of all Formula 1 race tracks ever used in the championships. Note that the names, directions, and turns are given according to the last time the circuit was used in a Formula One race. 

2024 F1 Circuits

The 2024 Formula One World Championship is the 75th edition of the race. It consists of a total of twenty four Grand Prix, which is a record number for the Championship. The first one, Bahrain Grand Prix, took place on 2 March 2024. The closing race of the year, Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, will be held on 8 December 2024. 

Ten teams have entered the race, each with at least two obligatory drivers and cars. The full list of the teams is as follows:

Out of the twenty four Grand Prix to be held this year, six will include a sprint race: Chinese, Miami, Austrian, United States, São Paulo and Qatar Grands Prix. Here is the full calendar of the 2024 Championship and the Formula 1 race tracks they will be using: