Formula 1 is the highest level of automobile racing in the world, and getting tickets to watch the races live isa dream come true for many F1 fans. If you're keen on attending an F1 race, this comprehensive guide will give you all the information you need on how to buy F1 tickets.
There are three main types of F1 tickets available - hospitality tickets, grandstand tickets, and general admission tickets.
Hospitality tickets are the most exclusive type of F1 tickets. They provide access to dedicated hospitality units that are often located above the pit buildings, providing fantastic views of the race. Hospitality tickets come with free-flowing drinks and food, often from Michelin-starred chefs. Depending on the type of hospitality package you choose, you may also get to experience pit-lane walks, paddock tours, driver appearances, and Q&A sessions with team members. Prices for hospitality tickets usually start from around £2,500 per person.
Grandstand tickets are a popular choice among F1 fans. They provide the best atmosphere and often the best views of the race. Prices for grandstand tickets vary depending on the grandstand you choose, with the main straight being the most expensive. However, if you're after great racing, we recommend choosing a grandstand seat at a corner at the end of a straight. Prices for grandstand tickets usually start from around £999 per person.
General admission tickets are the most affordable type of F1 tickets. They provide access to general viewing areas around the track, which may have slightly restricted views compared to grandstand seats. However, the atmosphere is usually electric, with hardcore F1fans gathering in these areas. Prices for general admission tickets are considerably lower, starting from around £40 for a practice day and from £100for a 3-day ticket.
Formula 1 races take place in countries allover the world, encompassing 6 continents. Each country hosts only one race, and choosing the right race to attend can be a daunting task. Here are some tips to help you make the right decision.
The Formula 1 race calendar is available on the official Formula 1 website. The website lists the scheduled times for the Friday free practice sessions, the Saturday free practice and race qualifying sessions, and the Sunday race. Be sure to use the current race calendar as there is some variation in race venues from year to year.
Early season races are more open to all competitors, while in the later races, the competition will increasingly focus on those who still have a chance to be world champion.
The official Formula 1 website offers track maps for all events. These are not standard ovals but rather complex courses with turns of varying difficulty and straights of varying lengths. Choose as lower, twisty track or a wide, high-speed track with long straights.
Be aware that the typical weather expectations for each race venue will differ. For example, it may be hot at the Monaco Grand Prix and rainy at the Belgian Grand Prix.
The need for passports and visas will varyfrom country to country, and advice from the appropriate embassy or nationaltravel office should be obtained. Determine any other restrictions that may apply. For example, alcohol is illegal in Muslim countries.
Once you've chosen the F1 race you want to attend, it's time to choose your seating area. Spectator seating areas are placed strategically in areas of interest around the track and come in three main types - grandstand seats, general admission areas, and the Formula 1 Paddock Club.
Grandstand seats are named to identify the specific seat location. Each venue will specify if seating is open for free practices. For most races, grandstand ticket holders must take their assigned seats.
General admission areas provide access to general viewing areas around the track, which may have slightly restricted views compared to grandstand seats.
The Formula 1 Paddock Club is on the second floor of the building that houses the racing team pits. From the Paddock Club, you can look down at the action in the pits or watch the entire race from an open balcony. Food and drink are included for the entire day.
Formula 1 has no such thing as a pit pass that allows free entry to the pits. Paddock Club attendees are typically offered short escorted pit walk tours at pre-arranged times.
Tickets to a Grand Prix race are available as a package for all 3 days of the event, but less expensive packages are available if you do not wish to attend all 3 days. When choosing a ticket package, consider the following:
The price of the event ranges, but typically starts at $1,000 USD (800 Euros) per day per seat.
Consider what is included in the ticket package. Does it include transportation to and from the track, accommodation, or access to exclusive events?
Ensure that the ticket package you choose is still available and that you can purchase it before it sells out.
F1 tickets are available directly through the racing association that operates the track or by tour operators. The official Formula 1 website offers such tours, as do other specialty online tour operators. Tour operators usually offer hotel deals and transportation between the hotel and the track.
When buying your F1 tickets, consider the following:
Ensure that you choose the right seating area for your needs and budget.
Compare prices for F1 tickets from different sources to ensure that you're getting the best deal.
Ensure that the tickets you want are still available and that you can purchase them before they sell out.
Buying F1 tickets can be a daunting task, but with this comprehensive guide, you're now equipped with the information you need to make an informed decision. Remember to consult the Formula 1 race calendar, choose the right race to attend, choose the right seating area, choose the right ticket package, and compare prices from different sources before making your purchase. Enjoy the race!
Learn about when tickets drop to the 2025 F1 calendar!