Story by Evelyn Diaz
Staff Writer

Illustration by Lanah Kim
Staff Illustrator

The FIA Formula One World Championship is one of the biggest motorsport competitions in the world. Formula, which initially began after World War II, started as a European sport and became an international championship in 1950. 

The FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile, which in English is the International Automobile Federation) is a global governing body of motorsports and regulates safety and fairness. The FIA was founded in 1904, and it governs all motorsports. The governing body levels the playing field for all racers.

Formula One has seen a huge rise in popularity in recent years, especially in the United States. Many credit the Netflix series Drive to Survive, which shows the behind the scenes of how teams prepare for the race and brings the sport to a wider audience by focusing on the drama and rivalries on and off the track. Others point to increased sponsorships and investments, which have helped expand the sport’s global reach. This combination of media exposure and financial backing has led to a significant boost in F1’s fanbase.

At SPHS, students have participated in STEM Racing, a regional, national, and global competition that challenges high school teams to design, build, and race the fastest model Formula One car, about the size of a laptop. STEM Racing simulates the complexity of real-world F1 by requiring teams of 3 to 6 members to manage sponsorships, develop marketing strategies, and produce professional business portfolios. Preparation began over the summer, culminating with the competition in December, where teams showcased their designs and technical skills. Formerly known as F1 in Schools, the competition rebranded to STEM Racing in December 2024, reinforcing its commitment to education while maintaining its deep connection to Formula One.

Just like in professional F1, success in STEM Racing mirrors the way real F1 teams balance cutting-edge engineering with business to stay ahead on the track.

Formula One has a rich history filled with legendary drivers and dominant teams. Past champions such as Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamilton, and Ayrton Senna have left an unforgettable impact on the sport. In the constructors’ category, teams like Ferrari, Mercedes, and Red Bull Racing have been instrumental in shaping F1’s competitive landscape, with Ferrari holding the most Constructors’ Championship.

Currently, the F1 grid features top-tier talent, including Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, Lando Norris, George Russell, and Carlos Sainz. Verstappen, the reigning champion, continues to dominate the sport with Red Bull Racing. Alongside him, powerhouse teams like Mercedes and Ferrari strive to reclaim their former dominance, making each season an intense battle for supremacy.

The Championships are separated into two groups. The Constructors’ Championship is a team event, so the team out of the 10 that wins the most points by the end of the season takes the title. A team can earn points when each individual driver places in the top 10. 

Formula One seasons run from March to December, with around 22 races across different countries. Becoming an F1 driver usually starts with karting at a young age, with some drivers starting on the road from the age of four. Many drivers find their passion by deciding to follow the footsteps of their parents, such as Max Verstappen, whose father was an F1 driver, and Carlos Sainz, whose father was a rally driver. To reach F1, drivers need exceptional skill, consistency, and often financial backing to secure a spot with a team. It is a highly competitive journey with only a few spots available each season.

F1 races take place on some of the most iconic circuits worldwide, including Monaco, Silverstone, and Monza. Each track presents unique challenges, from tight corners to high-speed straights, testing drivers’ skills and teams’ strategies. These locations are more than just race tracks — they are the heart of motorsport history and innovation.

Beyond just racing, Formula One represents the pinnacle of motorsport technology, teamwork, and global entertainment. It continuously pushes the boundaries of engineering, aerodynamics, and strategy, making it one of the most thrilling and prestigious sports in the world. With millions of fans and a growing presence across continents, F1 remains the ultimate showcase of speed, precision, and competition.