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How to Start Watching Formula 1: A Beginner-Friendly Guide to Understanding the Sport

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Overview

Formula 1 can look complex from the outside, but once you understand the basics, it becomes one of the most exciting sports in the world.

Expert

Olena Romanko

Hi! I’m a passionate Formula 1 fan who loves helping newcomers fall in love with the sport.

Steps

1

Pick a race to start with

Choose the next upcoming Grand Prix on the calendar. You don’t need to wait for the start of a season — any race is fine.

2

Learn the basic race weekend structure

Before watching, know the simple flow:

  1. Practice (Fri/Sat) – drivers test the car

  2. Qualifying (Sat) – fastest laps determine the starting grid

  3. Race (Sun) – first to finish wins

3

Know the teams and drivers

You don’t need deep knowledge — just recognize the main names. Learn the top teams: Ferrari, Mercedes, Red Bull, McLaren, etc. Notice car colors so you can follow them during races.

2 days

Monaco

Duration

Dates

1 week 1 day

days up to today
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December 2025
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January 2026
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