Racing in Formula One: The FIA Global Pathway

Racing in Formula One: The FIA Global Pathway

The steps aspiring racers take to become an F1 driver

Formula 1 is widely regarded as the pinnacle of motorsport, but many new fans may not be familiar with the junior categories and feeder series that aspiring drivers compete in before reaching F1.

In this article, we’ll break down the FIA Global Pathway, which guides young drivers from Karting all the way to Formula 1.

Karting: The Foundation of Motorsport

Every F1 career begins with karting. This grassroots level of racing serves as the foundation for young drivers, many of whom start as early as five years old, competing in local, national, and international events. Karting helps drivers develop fundamental racing skills, including car control, racecraft, and strategy—essential elements they will build upon as they advance through the ranks.

There are different levels of karting competition: regional, national, and international, with the latter being the most prestigious. F1 teams closely monitor young talent in karting, as demonstrated by Lewis Hamilton, who was signed by the McLaren-Mercedes Young Driver Programme at just 13 years old. Early development and recognition in karting can open doors to professional support and sponsorships from top teams.

Formula 4: The First Step in Single-Seaters

Formula 4 (F4) is the first official step on the single-seater ladder, bridging the gap between karting and Formula 3. Introduced in 2013, F4 features open-wheel cars powered by 160-horsepower engines, providing young drivers with their first experience in proper race cars.

F4 is structured as a national championship, with series held in different countries and regions worldwide. Initially, these series had variations in car specifications, but FIA regulations now ensure parity across all F4 championships. Some notable F4 series include:

  • F4 British Championship
  • F4 German Championship
  • F4 Italian Championship
  • F4 Japanese Championship
  • F4 United States Championship
  • F4 Spanish Championship

Formula Regional: The Next Step Up

Formula Regional is the next level after F4, featuring faster cars with 270-horsepower engines. This category is crucial for driver development as competitors transition from F4 to more powerful and competitive machines. Currently, there are six FIA-recognized Formula Regional series:

  • Formula Regional Americas Championship
  • Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine
  • Formula Regional Japanese Championship
  • Formula Regional Indian Championship
  • Formula Regional Oceania Championship
  • Formula Regional Middle East Championship

The FIA Formula Regional World Cup, also known as the Macau Grand Prix, is an annual event that gathers the top drivers from these regional series to compete on a global stage.

Formula 3: The Gateway to F1 Weekends

The FIA Formula 3 Championship (F3) is one of the final steps before reaching F1. It serves as a support series during F1 race weekends, giving young drivers exposure to F1 teams and team principles. F3 was formed by merging the GP3 Series and the FIA Formula 3 European Championship.

F3 cars are powered by naturally aspirated 3.4-liter V6 engines producing 380 horsepower. The introduction of DRS (Drag Reduction System) in F3 allows drivers to gain an advantage during overtakes, preparing them for its use in higher categories.

Formula 2: The Final Step Before F1

Formula 2 (F2) is the last step on the path to F1. Formerly known as GP2, F2 also runs as a support series during F1 race weekends, giving top drivers the chance to showcase their talent in front of F1 team bosses.

F2 cars use turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engines producing 620 horsepower, all built on a Dallara chassis. Unlike F1, where teams develop their own cars, F2 operates with a spec chassis and engine to ensure equal competition, focusing solely on driver performance.

FIA Super License: The Key to Entering F1

Before making the step up to F1, drivers must qualify for an FIA Super License. To be eligible, they must accumulate at least 40 Super License points within a three-year period from FIA-recognized championships.

Points are awarded based on finishing position and vary by series. For example:

  • Winning the F2 Championship earns 40 points.
  • Winning the F3 Championship earns 30 points.
  • Finishing third in F3 earns 20 points.

Drivers can also earn one point by completing at least 100 km during a Formula 1 free practice session.

Formula 1: The Pinnacle of Motorsport

Finally, Formula 1—the highest level of motorsport. With only 20 seats across 10 teams (expanding to 11 teams and 22 drivers in 2026 with Cadillac’s entry), competition is fierce. F1 showcases the world’s best drivers, fastest cars, and the most advanced racing technology.

Unlike F2 and F3, where all cars are built to the same specifications, F1 teams develop their cars from the ground up, balancing mechanical and aerodynamic innovations while adhering to strict regulations. Performance depends on both driver skill and team engineering, making F1 a unique challenge.

F1 Academy: A New Opportunity for Female Drivers

In addition to the traditional F1 ladder, the Formula One Group established the F1 Academy in 2022. This all-female Formula 4-level series aims to create opportunities for women in motorsport, helping young female drivers transition from karting to single-seater competition and progress through the ranks.

The European Advantage

For aspiring drivers outside of Europe, moving to the continent is often necessary to compete in F3 and F2. Since most teams and races are based in Europe, relocating provides better opportunities for development, sponsorships, and visibility.

Financial Hurdles and Sponsorships

Beyond the challenge of competing against the world's best drivers, racers also face significant financial obstacles as they climb the ranks. Many talented drivers struggle to continue their F1 pursuit due to the high costs associated with racing. This is where sponsorship and financial backing become crucial.

Many F1 teams operate young driver programs that not only develop talent but also provide financial support. These programs are instrumental in helping drivers progress through the ranks and secure a coveted F1 race seat.

A Long but Rewarding Journey

The path to Formula 1 is long, competitive, and challenging. From karting to F2, each step requires dedication, talent, and financial backing. However, for those who make it, the reward is the chance to race at the pinnacle of motorsport, competing against the best drivers in the world on the biggest stage.