We get it, for first-time IndyCar fans, the points system can be a little tricky to understand. How many points does a win get awarded? What about a pole position? Are certain races worth more? If you lead laps, do you get extra points?
All very valid and very important questions. Let us break it down for you.
How many points does a win get awarded?
Each race - the winner will receive 50 points, no matter what. The second place finisher receives 40 points and third will get 35. From there, fourth is awarded 32 points, and fifth through tenth places decrease by TWO points as the position works backwards. Eleventh place through to the final car will receive ONE point less than the previous position.
Can drivers receive extra points?
Yes! Robert Wickens won pole position at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg - ONE extra point. Alexander Rossi led a lap in Phoenix. ONE extra point for him too. Will Power led the most laps in Phoenix, that’s TWO extra points.
Are some races worth more in points than others?
As the season finale, all points at Sonoma in September are worth twice as much. If the first- and second-place drivers in point standings are only a couple points away from each other, you bet that you are going to get the best racing right through the end of the season in Sonoma with the championship on the line.
Also, as the marquee event for the series, The Indianapolis 500 is worth double the points. At the Indy 500 extra points are even awarded to each of the top nine qualifiers with the pole-sitter receiving NINE points instead of the standard ONE point for the fastest qualifying time.
There are a few additional points up for grabs in the event of a double header race. The only double header currently on the schedule is in Detroit. Drivers who have the fastest lap in the two qualifying groups will receive an additional point.
Why is this a great point system?
It’s great because it is designed to keep the points race tight and exciting all year long, so drivers will ALWAYS deliver their best drive, competing with the highest level of intensity, from the Firestone Grand Prix on the streets of St. Petersburg in March, right through to the Sonoma finale.