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Recapping F2’s new-points system and overhauled weekend format
With a new-points system and an overhauled race weekend format, Formula 2 will be entering something of a new era in 2022. Ahead of the opening round, we’ve compiled a handy one-stop-shop covering all of the key info…
WHAT WILL THE NEW WEEKEND FORMAT LOOK LIKE?
Fridays will remain the same as they have for all five seasons of Formula 2 to date, with one 45-minute Free Practice session, followed by a straight 30-minute shoot-out to pole.
Friday’s Qualifying results will then determine the starting grid for the Feature Race on Sunday. Taking place before the Formula 1 Grand Prix, F2’s Feature Race will be 60 minutes of wheel-to-wheel action with mandatory pitstops.
Meanwhile, the grid for the Sprint Race on the Saturday will be determined by reversing the top 10 drivers from Qualifying. A shorter 45-minute affair, the Sprint Race does not feature compulsory pitstops.
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HOW MANY POINTS ARE AVAILABLE IN EACH SESSION?
The driver who takes pole position following the final classification of Friday’s Qualifying session will now be awarded two points, down from four in 2021. As has always been the case, the driver who starts on reverse grid pole in the Sprint Race will not be awarded any additional points.
For the Sprint Race, the top eight classified drivers will now be awarded 10, 8, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1 points respectively.
As the longer race with mandatory pitstops, Sunday’s Feature Race is considered as F2’s main event. The starting grid is decided by the results of Qualifying and there are substantially more points on offer. The top 10 finishers will score 25, 18, 15, 12, 10, 8, 6, 4, 2 and 1 points respectively. This point allocation remains the same as in previous years.
In each race, one point will be awarded to the driver who achieves the fastest lap time, providing he is in the top 10 positions of the final race classification.
HAS THE TYRE ALLOCATION CHANGED?
Yes. Each driver will be allocated five sets of dry-weather tyres per weekend. They will have three “prime” specification sets and two of the “option” specification. This is down from six in 2021. Each driver will also be provided with three sets of wet-weather tyres.
More info can be found in the FAQ section of our official website.