How Does F1 Qualifying Work?

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands celebrates his first place on the podium at the end of the Brazilian Formula One Grand Prix at the Interlagos race track in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023.
(Andre Penner/AP Photo)
  • Formula 1 qualifying is divided into three segments.
  • After the first two segments, five drivers are eliminated and placed into grid spots.
  • The third segment of qualifying determines which driver earns pole position.

To set the grid for the grand prix, Formula 1 drivers partake in a qualifying session.ย 

For those new to Formula 1, the process can prove a tad confusing. Below, both viewers and bettors can find out the structure for F1 qualifying.ย 

How Does F1 Qualifying Work?ย 

Formula 1 qualifying is divided into three separate, timed segments: Q1, Q2 and Q3.ย 

In Q1, all 20 drivers partake in a timed session and can complete as many laps as they desire. Each driverโ€™s best lap is recorded.ย 

After the session ends, the five drivers with the slowest times are eliminated and placed on the grid in the order from fastest to slowest.ย 

For example, the fastest driver of the group starts the grand prix in P16 while the slowest starts P20.ย 

The process repeats itself in Q2. Drivers complete as many laps as they desire with the five slowest drivers once again eliminated and placed onto the grid.ย 

After Q2, the fastest driver of the eliminated group starts P11 while the slowest starts P15.ย 

In Q3, the 10 remaining drivers race for pole position in a timed session. Once again, drivers complete as many laps as time permits.ย 

Drivers are then placed into the final 10 spots of the grid based on their fastest time. The driver with the fastest qualifying time in Q3 earns pole position.

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About the Author

Nick Hennion

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Nick Hennion is a senior content writer for BetMGM. His previous stops include VSiN, NBC Sports, The Action Network and Forbes Betting. He owns a bachelor's degree from Syracuse University and a master's degree from Northwestern University.

Nick Hennion is a senior content writer for BetMGM. His previous stops include VSiN, NBC Sports, The Action Network and Forbes Betting. He owns a bachelor's degree from Syracuse University and a master's degree from Northwestern University.