The history of Formula 1 is full of twists and turns but it has never failed to captivate its audience. Since its inception in the early 20th century, Formula 1 racing has gained popularity with its blend of speed, technology, and glamour. As per ESPN, the average viewership doubled from 514,000 in 2018 to 1.18 million in 2023. Quite fascinating, right? And do you know in 2022, F1’s owner, Liberty Media, reported that Formula 1 generated a total of $2.57 billion? Because of the record-breaking attendance and expanded global viewership.
In this article, let’s delve into the rich history of this thrilling sport, Formula 1, tracing its origins, iconic moments, and the legendary drivers who have left an indelible mark on the sport.
What Is Formula 1?
Formula One, popularly known as F1, is an auto-racing championship held internationally. It is governed by FIA- Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile or the International Automobile Federation. The driver crosses the finish line after finishing the predetermined number of laps.
Timeline Of Formula 1
The history of Formula 1 dates back to 1901, however, it was not before 1946 that FIA standardized the rules for racing. These rules became the basis of Formula 1 racing in 1950, the world’s first racing championship. Let’s now look at the timeline of Formula 1:
Pre- 1950s
1901 witnessed the inaugural use of the term “grand prix” to describe a race, specifically the French Grand Prix at Le Mans.
In 1904, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) was established as a non-profit association to advocate for the interests of motoring organizations and car users.
1933 marked the introduction of qualifying times to determine starting positions in the race at the Monaco Grand Prix.
During 1935-39, efforts were made to establish a world drivers’ championship, but these plans were put on hold due to the outbreak of World War 2.
1946 marked the beginning of the history of Formula 1 by formally recognizing it as a racing formula.
1950s
In 1953, Argentina hosted the first Grand Prix championship outside of Europe in F1 race history.
1954 saw the reinstatement of the world championship under F1 regulations, with new rules limiting engine size to 2.5 litres.
1958 marked the introduction of the first Constructors’ Championship and the first Grand Prix in Africa (Morocco). Sharing cars during a race was also prohibited.
1960s
1961 marked the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Formula 1 when the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine formula was introduced.
1962 saw Lotus introducing a groundbreaking design with an aluminium monocoque chassis, departing from the traditional space-frame design.
The 1966 season initiated the 3-litre naturally aspirated engine formula.
1967 witnessed the first televised colour broadcast of the German Grand Prix.
In 1968, Lotus cars displayed Imperial Tobacco logos, signalling the advent of sponsorship in Formula One.
1970s
The use of a pace car was introduced in 1973 during the Canadian Grand Prix.
In 1978, Bernie Ecclestone assumed the presidency of the Formula One Constructors’ Association (FOCA). The introduction of a medical car aimed at improving reaction time in case of a first-lap accident occurred this year.
1979 saw the establishment of the Fédération Internationale du Sport Automobile (FISA) as the governing body for events.
1980s – Present
1982 witnessed Lotus unveiling active suspension, signalling the rise of electronic driver aids. A driver strike occurred before the South African Grand Prix in protest against the introduction of driver licenses.
1983 marked the last non-championship F1 race.
1985 saw the first World Championship Grand Prix held in Oceania (Melbourne, Australia).
1990 marked the 500th Grand Prix, hosted in Adelaide.
The safety car first appeared at the British Grand Prix in 1992.
In 2008, the Formula One Teams Association (FOTA), representing the interests of the teams, was formed.
History Of Formula 1 Team
McLaren
McLaren is one of the oldest teams in the history of Formula 1. The team joined the competition in 1966, and it took them 8 years to win their first world championship in 1974. And within 2 years in 1976, they won their 2nd championship.
Scuderia Ferrari
McLaren is one of the oldest teams in the history of Formula One. They joined the competition in 1966, and it took them almost 8 years to win their first world championship in 1974. However, within 2 years they were able to win their 2nd championship.
Williams
Williams started their F1 journey in 1978 and dominated for an entire decade from 1980-1990. During this time, they won all their constructor titles along with all seven drivers’ races. They have a total of 9 constructor titles, however, they do not have any history of developing engines.
Mercedes
Mercedes has won a total of 8 constructors’ titles; they entered the F1 space in 1954 and left in 1955. Though they weren’t directly involved in the sport, they were still supporting the teams through their technology and engines. In 2010 they again entered the F1 race segment and since then they have been one of the dominant forces in the history of Formula 1. Also, Mercedes has started using their F1 technology in developing high-end cars on roads, which are also some of the most expensive cars in the world.
Red Bull Racing
Red Bull has been in the game since 2005 and has won a total of six constructor’s titles. And since 2009, Red Bull has consistently achieved third or higher place in the Constructor standings every year, with only one exception in 2015. Within the team’s history, two drivers from Red Bull have clinched Driver’ Championships: Sebastian Vettel secured four consecutive titles from 2010 to 2013, and Max Verstappen has triumphed in the last three championships.
Conclusion
As Formula 1 enters a new era with the advent of efficient and sustainable technologies, its rich history serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of speed, innovation, and passion. From its humble beginnings to its status as a global phenomenon, Formula 1 continues to captivate audiences and inspire generations of racing enthusiasts around the world.
FAQs
Who Invented Formula 1?
No one is quite sure who was the brain behind the idea of an official Formula One World Championship, but the credit is generally given to the Marquis Antonio Brivio-Sforza, who was the representative of Italy at the FIA in 1946.
Why Formula 1 is called Formula 1?
“Formula” in Formula 1 represents the rules and regulations that the participant must follow. And “1” represents top-level international competition.
What was the first F1 racing car?
Alfa Romeo’s 158 is the first-ever F1 racing car. It had a straight-eight supercharged engine that produced nearly 200bhp at 7,000rpm.
Who won the first-ever Formula 1 race?
Giuseppe Farina was the first man to get his name registered in the history of Formula 1 by winning the first-ever F1 championship.
Who has the most F1 wins in history?
In the history of Formula 1, Lewis Hamilton holds the record for winning the most races with 103 wins to date. He is a 7-time world champion followed by Michael Schumacher.
What is the longest F1 race in history?
The Canadian Grand Prix, held in 2011, is the longest race in the history of Formula 1.
