Formula 1: history behind the Grand Prix

Over the course of a weekend twenty-one countries across the world host the most prestigious auto racing events in the world where twenty drivers and ten teams vie for the ultimate prizes in motorsports: the F1 Drivers Championship and the Constructors Trophy. It truly is the world's fastest sport. Formula 1 tickets are ready now to buy or sell via StubHub.

It's the world's premiere auto racing championship

The history of Formula 1 traces back to the Grand Prix Motor Racing competition which originated in France and was held from 1906 until 1949 when it was replaced by a World Drivers Championship in 1950. From then began a period where car makers such as Mercedes-Benz, Ferrari and Alfa Romeo dominated the sport with the latter winning an unprecedented five titles in the 1950s courtesy of racing legend Juan Manuel Fangio. British firm Lotus would then dominate the sport from the late 50s until the mid-70s behind drivers Jackie Stuart and Graham Hill. Formula 1 is similar to Xfinity Series 300, Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series and Formula One British Grand Prix as other racing car competitions. The 1970s ushered in the most comprehensive changes and advances to the sport which saw it blossom into the multi-billion-dollar behemoth as we know it today. A "formula" governing car specifications was decided upon to which all teams were obligated to adhere, an international governing body was created and commercial licensing plus the introduction of "specialist race teams" allowed the sport to grow first across Europe and then across the world. Formula 1 tickets are available now for purchase or sale via StubHub.

Watch the world's fastest racing cars in competition

With the introduction of "specialist" teams like Williams, Sauber and McLaren in the early 1980s, the sport of Formula 1 entered a new era as private constructors with corporate financing allowed non-engine manufacturers to compete with the established names like Ferrari and Mercedes-Benz on the circuit. Other changes to the sport also included the use of different tyre compounds to be used during races, the era of hybrid engines and a revamped qualifying session used to determine starting positions on the grid for race day. In the 1950s there were only seven races on the calendar which has mushroomed over the years to the twenty-one races on the present schedule with each country hosting one race each. Also, there are several night races including the Singapore Grand Prix and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Broadcast licensing agreements allowed for worldwide televising of all races which has introduced tens of millions of fans to the sport making it one of the most watched sports events in the world. Formula 1 tickets are ready now for purchase or sale via StubHub.