F1 Knockout Qualifying: How Q1 Q2 Q3 Works

Knockout qualifying is the format used to determine the starting grid for a Formula 1 race. It consists of three stages — Q1, Q2, and Q3. In Q1, the five slowest drivers are eliminated. In Q2, another five are knocked out. The remaining ten drivers then compete in Q3 for pole position. Each stage has a time limit and drivers can set as many lap times as they wish within it. The knockout format builds tension progressively, with the final Q3 shoot-out producing the most drama.

Example: We’re heading into Q2 now — five more drivers will be eliminated and unable to progress to the Q3 shoot-out.