The inverted grids return in F1 Academy

The race weekend format remains the same as in 2024, with one or two practice sessions, a qualifying session, and two races, with race 1 becoming a reverse grid race.

According to the new rule, Race 1 will take place with a reversed grid. The starting order will be determined by inverting the top eight drivers from the qualifying standings. All others will start from the position they qualified. At the checkered flag, the top eight will receive points. An additional point will be awarded to the driver who records the fastest lap among these eight classified drivers.

The format and point distribution for race 2 remain identical to those of the 2024 season, with a grid determined based on the fastest laps in qualifying. Drivers ranked in the top ten during race 2 will receive points, and additionally, one point will be awarded to the driver who set the fastest lap among these ten. Furthermore, two points will be awarded to the driver who secured the pole position.

Delphine Biscaye, head of competition for the F1 ACADEMY, stated: « The return of the reverse grid in 2025 promises exciting races with even more overtaking. This change will also challenge and develop the driving talent of our drivers and prepare them to progress in motorsport, where reverse grids are a staple of the weekend format. Reverse grids are a fantastic opportunity for drivers who often qualify from P5 to P8 to demonstrate their ability to race at the front, and a podium or race win can be exactly what is needed to unlock their full confidence and potential. »

The changes made to the race format follow the announcement of the expansion of the F1 ACADEMY grid to 18 cars in 2025, compared to 15 in 2024. This reflects the growth and recognition of the series and its pool of talent.