F1 facts to amaze you
High-octane and high-adrenalin, Formula 1 is the most advanced and competitive sport in the world. It is also the most dangerous, which is part of what makes it so exhilarating. Such an intense sport is made up of many facets, of course, with the teams, drivers, cars and technology all playing a role, as do the tracks the cars race on!
Let’s take a look at ten facts about F1 that may surprise even the most ardent fans.
1. The formula in F1
Formula 1 is very aptly named, as the ‘formula’ refers to the set of rules followed by all participants and that the constructors must adhere to when building the cars.
2. Racing at a cost
F1 is incredibly expensive. Even with cost-cutting measures in place, the average cost of a car is $6.8m (£5.17m). This does not include the funds set aside for development, for the teams’ time in the F1 Paddock Club, or the salaries paid to everyone involved.
3. Car components
It takes over 80,000 components at a 100 per cent accuracy rate to come together to get an F1 car on the track.
Image Credit
4. Maintenance
With the cars being put through all kinds of stresses and strains the F1 technical team and pit stop team normally take care of any faults and if it wasn’t for the mechanics and their knowledge some of the cars wouldn’t be able to compete. The same type of passion and skill could be found at a Gloucester MOT company who provide services to cars at websites including 123carandcommercial.com. Just like formula one cars it is important that domestic vehicles are safe and efficient to be driven.
- Three-second rule
If you are watching teams change tyres in the pit lane from the comfort of hospitality provided by a sporting events company, you need to be quick. It takes just three seconds for a professional pit crew to change the tyres and refuel a car.6. Engines that blow
Despite all the money spent on the engines, they usually only last the two hours of a race before they blow up.
7. Car v planeAn F1 car travels at a faster speed than a small aircraft at take-off; however, its downforce design keeps it on the track.
8. Fast acceleration
F1 cars can accelerate from 0-100mph in four seconds.9. Helmet tests
F1 helmets are incredibly tough and are subjected to a barrage of tests, including being exposed to 800°C for 45 seconds, before they are approved.
10. The Hill factor
The surname Hill in F1 is a sure-fire winner. There have been three drivers with the name Hill (two were father and son) and all three have won a world championship.