Formula 1 races typically last between 1.5 and 2 hours, with the average race duration being about 90 minutes. The exact length varies depending on the circuit and race conditions such as safety cars or red flags, which can slow down or temporarily halt the race
. Each race is set to cover a minimum distance of 305 kilometers (approximately 190 miles), except for the Monaco Grand Prix, which is shorter at about 260 kilometers (160 miles) due to its slower street circuit layout. The number of laps in a race depends on the length of the circuit, designed so that the total race distance meets or slightly exceeds the minimum distance requirement
. Races must be completed within a maximum time limit of two hours of track time, but if the race is stopped (e.g., red flags), a three-hour window is allowed to complete the two hours of racing
. Most races finish within the scheduled laps and time, but exceptional circumstances can extend the duration. In summary:
- Typical race duration: about 90 minutes (1.5 hours)
- Maximum race time: 2 hours of track time (3 hours including stoppages)
- Race distance: minimum 305 km (except Monaco at 260 km)
- Number of laps varies by circuit length to meet distance requirement
This structure ensures races are roughly similar in length despite the variety of circuits on the calendar
