Formula 1’s Evolution Over 75 Years
Throughout its 75-year history, Formula 1 has continuously transformed, leading to numerous developments along the way. One significant area of change is the points system. This raises a question: how would the historical results appear if today’s points structure had been implemented since the championship’s inception in 1950?
Thanks to our F1 data team, we now have insights into how each season would have shifted under the modern points format. But before delving into those intriguing findings, let’s review the evolution of the points system.
Comparative Points Systems: 2025 versus the Past
The current points system, established in 2010, allocates points to the top 10 drivers: 25 for the winner, then descending to 18, 15, 12, 10, 8, 6, 4, 2, and 1 point for the tenth place. Additionally, sprint races award points to the top eight finishers, varying from 8 for first to 1 for eighth. The driver with the most seasonal points is crowned World Champion.
Since 2019, drivers finishing in the top ten have been able to earn an extra point for the fastest lap, though this bonus is set to be removed for the 2025 season.
Historical Changes in Points Allocation
Over the decades of Formula 1, the points system has seen several alterations; in the early years, only the top five finishers received points, which later expanded to six in 1960, then eight in 2003. Initially, winners earned eight points, a figure that gradually increased to a modern-day 25. The Drivers’ Championship was also calculated from a set number of a driver’s best results until 1991.
Reimagining Season Outcomes with Modern Points
Our analysts recalibrated past World Championships using the 2025 points system exclusively based on race results (excluding sprint points). This analysis revealed fascinating insights into which drivers would have benefited or suffered from the shifts in scoring.
Drivers Advantaging from the New Points System
Some drivers notably impacted by this recalibration include Eddie Irvine, who, despite missing a title in 1999 by a mere two points, could have been a World Champion under the current scoring structure. This adjustment would have allowed him to capitalize on key races and finish the season with a substantial lead over his competitors.
Another significant figure is Alain Prost. Historically a four-time champion, he would hypothetically achieve seven titles with the newer points format. His first championship could have been awarded two years earlier, and his rivalry results would drastically shift in his favor under the new scoring.
Drivers Losing Titles Under the New System
Conversely, notable champions would lose out. John Surtees, for example, would have lost his title to Graham Hill. Similarly, the legendary James Hunt, who claimed his title in 1976 due to a last-minute decision, would find himself overshadowed by Niki Lauda if today’s points system were considered.
Ultimately, while some drivers would gain coveted titles, many champions from the past would see their legacies altered significantly under the current scoring format, highlighting the impact of the evolution of the points system in Formula 1.
