The FIA and Formula 1 management have opted for a return to the original scoring system, abandoning the bonus point for the fastest lap. Introduced in 2019 to make the final stages of races more exciting, this bonus often proved controversial. In many cases, it was strategically exploited to take points away from a direct competitor.
“Since 2019, a driver finishing in the top 10 could earn a bonus point by setting the fastest lap of the race,” F1 stated on its official website. “Sometimes, this meant drivers would continue pushing late in the race to secure the recognition, or even make late pit stops to fit fresh tires. But it also created the possibility for a car outside the top 10 to pit and take away points from another driver, even though they would not earn any themselves. And since the bonus sometimes proved to be a controversial topic, the decision was made this year to remove it from the scoring system.”
Criticism and reactions
The removal of the extra point has sparked strong reactions. McLaren CEO Zak Brown expressed his disappointment.
Within the paddock, however, the decision has been well received. Drivers like George Russell pointed out that the bonus, aside from being unnecessary, encouraged behaviors that went against the meritocratic spirit of competition. “I always thought the fastest lap point was a bit pointless. It was always going to be the driver having a tough race within the top 10 who would put on new tires and take the extra point. I never saw the benefit of it. I’m happy to see it gone.”
Interestingly, while this strategic shift affects Formula 1, the bonus point for the fastest lap will remain in place in junior categories such as Formula 2 and Formula 3 for the foreseeable future, ensuring continuity in emerging competitions.
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