How to Follow the F1 Grand Prix

The Formula One Grand Prix is one of the most exciting competitions in the world of motorsport. This world championship season is composed of races held in countries across the world. Two breathtaking competitions, the drivers’ world championship and the constructors’ world championship, run simultaneously throughout the year-long season. Following the fastest motor-racing competition in the world is simple. Here’s how.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Do a little background research to understand how the races are organized. First, there is practice. The day before the main race there is qualifying. Here drivers strive to complete as quick a lap as possible so as to gain a good starting grid position for the race. Finally there is the race itself.
2. Familiarize yourself with the rules of the championship. Technical rules in particular are well worth knowing, as they are often the subject of great discussion to the impact they have on races.
3. Watch out for formula one championship preview guides appearing in national newspapers in the week before the season begins. These are a great way to get information on all the teams and drivers. Often a wall-chart will also be offered, a fantastic option to see at-a-glance what lies ahead in the season.
4. Find out what television channel has rights to show the Grand Prix. Actually watching all the races is easily the best way to follow throughout the season.
5. Visit www.formula1.com frequently. This is the official website of the championship. It is packed with great information, news and race coverage.
6. Get tickets for a race. It is impossible to fully appreciate the full F1 experience without having witnessed it first-hand.
7. Buy a subscription with an F1 magazine. “F1 Racing” is one of the best. A monthly subscription can be ordered at their website, www.f1racing.co.uk.
8. Develop an allegiance to a specific team or driver. This will increase your enjoyment of the races.

Tips & Warnings

• F1 is about much more than just the racing. Knowing about the cars, drivers and teams leads to a better enjoyment of the races.
• While they do not represent their countries as such, it can add to your enjoyment to support a driver from your country in the championship. Former British World champions such as Nigel Mansell enjoyed huge home support.