If two drivers (or teams) finish the season with the same number of points, F1 uses a clear system to decide who ranks higher — based on performance, not luck.
What happens if there’s a tie in the standings?
The FIA applies a countback system — comparing race results to see who had the better finishes.
What’s the first tie-breaker?
The number of race wins during the season. Whoever has more victories takes the higher position.
What if both have the same number of wins?
Then it goes down the list:
- Most 2nd places
- Then 3rd places
- Then 4ths, 5ths, and so on…
Until a difference is found.
Is it the same for Constructors’ ties?
Yes — the same countback system applies. The team with the stronger set of finishes across both drivers wins the tie.
Has this ever happened?
Yes — famously in 2021, Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen finished tied on points going into the final race. Verstappen won the title with more race wins.
What if every result is identical?
Highly unlikely — but in that case, the FIA would decide based on non-performance factors, or possibly declare a shared title (though this has never happened in F1 history).
