2021 Formula One World Championship#Financial regulation

All teams competed with tyres supplied by Pirelli.{{cite news|url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2018/11/26/pirelli-to-remain-f1-tyre-supplier-until-2023/|title=Pirelli to remain F1 tyre supplier until 2023|first=Mat|last=Coch|work=speedcafe.com|date=26 November 2018|access-date=10 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190821215821/https://www.speedcafe.com/2018/11/26/pirelli-to-remain-f1-tyre-supplier-until-2023/|archive-date=21 August 2019|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://racingnews365.com/pirelli-to-remain-formula-1-tyre-provider-until-2024|title=Pirelli to remain F1 tyre provider until 2024|date=5 March 2021|website=Racingnews365.com|access-date=9 August 2022|archive-date=19 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210419082926/https://racingnews365.com/pirelli-to-remain-formula-1-tyre-provider-until-2024|url-status=live}} Each team was required to enter at least two drivers, one for each of the two mandatory cars.{{cite web|title=2020 Formula One Sporting Regulations|url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/2020_formula_1_sporting_regulations_-_iss_7-_2020-04-28.pdf|date=28 April 2020|website=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile|page=5|access-date=21 May 2020|archive-date=1 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200501101303/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/2020_formula_1_sporting_regulations_-_iss_7-_2020-04-28.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.racefans.net/2021-f1-season/2021-f1-drivers-and-teams/|title=2021 F1 drivers and teams|website=RaceFans|date=6 January 2020|publisher=Collantine Media Ltd|access-date=22 January 2020|archive-date=23 January 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200123134825/https://www.racefans.net/2021-f1-season/2021-f1-drivers-and-teams/|url-status=live}}

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Across the season, five drivers drove as a test or third driver in free practice sessions. Callum Ilott and Robert Kubica drove for Alfa Romeo Racing at two and three Grands Prix respectively, while Roy Nissany and Jack Aitken drove for Williams at three Grands Prix and at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, respectively. Zhou Guanyu drove for Alpine at the Austrian Grand Prix.

McLaren announced that they would change from using Renault power units to ones built by Mercedes, resuming the McLaren-Mercedes partnership that ran between {{F1|1995}} and {{F1|2014}}.{{cite news |last1=Takle |first1=Abhishek |title=McLaren to return to Mercedes engines from 2021 |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/motor-f1-mclaren/update-1-motor-racing-mclaren-to-return-to-mercedes-engines-from-2021-idUSL3N26J04H |access-date=28 September 2019 |work=Reuters |date=28 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190928085509/https://www.reuters.com/article/motor-f1-mclaren/update-1-motor-racing-mclaren-to-return-to-mercedes-engines-from-2021-idUSL3N26J04H |archive-date=28 September 2019 |url-status=live }} Racing Point became known as Aston Martin. The name change was brought about by the team's part owner Lawrence Stroll investing in the Aston Martin marque making its return to the sport since 1960.{{cite web|title=Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings plc|url=https://www.londonstockexchange.com/exchange/news/market-news/market-news-detail/AML/14405224.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200131080839/https://www.londonstockexchange.com/exchange/news/market-news/market-news-detail/AML/14405224.html|archive-date=31 January 2020|access-date=31 January 2020|publisher=London Stock Exchange}} Renault became known as Alpine, taking on the name of Renault's sportscar brand.

File:Mick Schumacher - 2019202181015 2019-07-21 Champions for Charity - 1500 - B70I1535.jpg made his Formula One debut with Haas.]]

Four-time World Drivers' Champion Sebastian Vettel left Ferrari at the end of the {{F1|2020}} season after racing with the team for six seasons.{{Cite news |first=Luke |last=Smith |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/149387/ferrari-announces-sebastian-vettel-split |title=Ferrari announces Sebastian Vettel split |work=Autosport |date=12 May 2020 |access-date=12 May 2020 |archive-date=13 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200513211233/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/149387/ferrari-announces-sebastian-vettel-split |url-status=live }} Vettel's seat was taken by Carlos Sainz Jr., who had left McLaren after two seasons.{{cite news|last=Coch|first=Mat|date=14 May 2020|title=Ferrari confirms Sainz as Vettel's replacement|work=speedcafe.com|url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2020/05/14/ferrari-confirms-sainz-as-vettels-replacement/|url-status=live|access-date=14 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200817173921/https://www.speedcafe.com/2020/05/14/ferrari-confirms-sainz-as-vettels-replacement/|archive-date=17 August 2020}} Daniel Ricciardo moved from Renault to McLaren, where he replaced Sainz.{{cite news |date=14 May 2020 |title=Australian Formula 1 star Daniel Ricciardo to join McLaren after spell with Renault |work=ABC News |url=https://mobile.abc.net.au/news/2020-05-14/daniel-ricciardo-leaves-renault-to-join-mclaren-formula-one/12249854|url-status=live|access-date=14 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200913105624/https://mobile.abc.net.au/news/2020-05-14/daniel-ricciardo-leaves-renault-to-join-mclaren-formula-one/12249854|archive-date=13 September 2020}} Ricciardo was replaced by double World Champion Fernando Alonso, who drove in Alpine's first season, having last raced in {{F1|2018}} for McLaren.{{cite web|date=8 July 2020|title=Fernando Alonso to make sensational return to F1 with Renault in 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.fernando-alonso-to-make-sensational-return-to-f1-with-renault-in-2021.70HoQCymKIElIDzHFXkaBB.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201002160207/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.fernando-alonso-to-make-sensational-return-to-f1-with-renault-in-2021.70HoQCymKIElIDzHFXkaBB.html|archive-date=2 October 2020|access-date=8 July 2020|website=Formula1|publisher=Formula One Administration}}

Vettel moved to Aston Martin, where he replaced Sergio Pérez.{{cite web|date=10 September 2020|title=Vettel to make sensational Racing Point switch in 2021 as they re-brand as Aston Martin|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.confirmed-vettel-to-make-sensational-racing-point-switch-in-2021-as-they-re.2fFFG6zJLTZssQg9EBrA5H.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929104005/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.confirmed-vettel-to-make-sensational-racing-point-switch-in-2021-as-they-re.2fFFG6zJLTZssQg9EBrA5H.html|archive-date=29 September 2020|access-date=10 September 2020|website=Formula1}}{{cite web|last=Galloway|first=James|date=10 September 2020|title=Sebastian Vettel joining Aston Martin for F1 2021 replacing Sergio Perez|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12067801/sebastian-vettel-joining-aston-martin-for-f1-2021-replacing-sergio-perez|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200913173938/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12067801/sebastian-vettel-joining-aston-martin-for-f1-2021-replacing-sergio-perez|archive-date=13 September 2020|access-date=10 September 2020|website=Sky Sports}} Pérez, who had previously signed a contract to drive for Aston Martin's predecessor, Racing Point, until 2022,{{cite web|date=30 August 2019|title=Perez signs three-year contract extension with Racing Point|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.perez-signs-three-year-contract-extension-with-racing-point.3VUJf5vWQmfU0NFXdapdnn.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200911005651/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.perez-signs-three-year-contract-extension-with-racing-point.3VUJf5vWQmfU0NFXdapdnn.html|archive-date=11 September 2020|access-date=9 September 2020|website=Formula1}} moved to Red Bull Racing where he replaced Alexander Albon, who was Red Bull Racing's reserve and test driver for the 2021 season.{{Cite news|date=18 December 2020|title=Perez to partner Verstappen at Red Bull in 2021, as Albon becomes reserve driver|work=F1|publisher=Formula One World Championship|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-perez-to-partner-verstappen-at-red-bull-in-2021-as-albon-becomes.21qHfmHAyfzAjVHT3PfVBd.html|url-status=live|access-date=18 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201218140613/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-perez-to-partner-verstappen-at-red-bull-in-2021-as-albon-becomes.21qHfmHAyfzAjVHT3PfVBd.html|archive-date=18 December 2020}} Pérez became the first driver since Mark Webber in {{F1|2007}} to join the team without being previously a Red Bull Junior Team member.{{cite news |last1=Coch |first1=Mat |title=Perez replaces Albon at Red Bull for 2021 F1 season |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2020/12/19/perez-replaces-albon-at-red-bull-for-2021-f1-season/ |access-date=20 December 2020 |work=speedcafe.com |date=19 December 2020 |archive-date=19 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201219214402/https://www.speedcafe.com/2020/12/19/perez-replaces-albon-at-red-bull-for-2021-f1-season/ |url-status=live }}

Romain Grosjean and Kevin Magnussen, who had raced for Haas since {{F1|2016}} and {{F1|2017}} respectively, left the team at the end of 2020.{{cite web|date=22 October 2020|title=Grosjean and Magnussen announce they are to leave Haas at the end of 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-grosjean-and-magnussen-announce-they-are-to-leave-haas-at-the-end.5pXS3lUq9uQIbBZvXo41cV.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024101759/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-grosjean-and-magnussen-announce-they-are-to-leave-haas-at-the-end.5pXS3lUq9uQIbBZvXo41cV.html|archive-date=24 October 2020|access-date=22 October 2020|website=Formula1}} 2020 Formula 2 Champion Mick Schumacher, the son of seven-time World Champion Michael Schumacher, took one of the seats at the team{{cite news|date=2 December 2020|title=Mick Schumacher to race for Haas in 2021 as famous surname returns to F1 grid|work=F1|publisher=Formula One World Championship|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-mick-schumacher-to-race-for-haas-in-2021-as-famous-surname-returns.66XTVfSt80GrZe91lvWVwJ.html|url-status=live|access-date=2 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201208061658/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-mick-schumacher-to-race-for-haas-in-2021-as-famous-surname-returns.66XTVfSt80GrZe91lvWVwJ.html|archive-date=8 December 2020}} while the other was filled by Nikita Mazepin, who finished fifth in the Formula 2 Championship.{{cite news|date=1 December 2020|title=Haas sign F2 racer Nikita Mazepin for 2021 on multi-year deal|website=Formula1|publisher=Formula One World Championship|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-haas-sign-f2-racer-nikita-mazepin-for-2021-on-multi-year-deal.4PefsyopWnbM4MQYZBkKSj.html|url-status=live|access-date=1 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201213011338/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-haas-sign-f2-racer-nikita-mazepin-for-2021-on-multi-year-deal.4PefsyopWnbM4MQYZBkKSj.html|archive-date=13 December 2020}}{{cite web|title=FIA Formula 2 Championship 2020 standings|url=https://www.driverdb.com/championships/standings/gp2-series/2020/|access-date=8 December 2020|website=Driver Database|archive-date=10 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210210133917/https://www.driverdb.com/championships/standings/gp2-series/2020/|url-status=live}}

Yuki Tsunoda, who finished third in 2020 Formula 2 Championship, graduated to Formula One with Scuderia AlphaTauri, replacing Daniil Kvyat, who moved to Alpine as their reserve driver.{{Cite news |title=Kvyat joins Alpine as reserve F1 driver |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/kvyat-joins-alpine-as-reserve-f1-driver/5548814/ |access-date=2 March 2021 |date=2 March 2021 |work=motorsport.com |archive-date=2 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210302154319/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/kvyat-joins-alpine-as-reserve-f1-driver/5548814/ |url-status=live }} Tsunoda became the first Japanese Formula One driver since Kamui Kobayashi in {{F1|2014}}.{{cite web|date=16 December 2020|title=Tsunoda to make F1 racing debut with AlphaTauri in 2021, in place of Kvyat|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-tsunoda-to-make-f1-racing-debut-with-alphatauri-in-2021-in-place-of.2AeT7L7KrbDKmIxvXgYrp4.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201216080424/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-tsunoda-to-make-f1-racing-debut-with-alphatauri-in-2021-in-place-of.2AeT7L7KrbDKmIxvXgYrp4.html|archive-date=16 December 2020|access-date=16 December 2020|website=Formula1}}

During the Dutch Grand Prix weekend, Kimi Räikkönen tested positive for coronavirus.{{cite web |title=Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN – Dutch GP team statement |url=https://www.sauber-group.com/motorsport/f1-news/alfa-romeo-racing-orlen-dutch-gp-team-statement/ |website=sauber-group.com |publisher=Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN |date=4 September 2021 |access-date=4 September 2021 |archive-date=4 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210904074537/https://www.sauber-group.com/motorsport/f1-news/alfa-romeo-racing-orlen-dutch-gp-team-statement/ |url-status=live }} He was replaced at Alfa Romeo Racing by reserve driver Robert Kubica, who last raced at the 2019 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, driving for Williams.{{cite web |title=Robert Kubica to compete in the 2021 Dutch Grand Prix |url=https://www.sauber-group.com/motorsport/f1-news/robert-kubica-to-compete-in-the-2021-dutch-grand-prix/ |website=sauber-group.com |publisher=Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN |date=4 September 2021 |access-date=4 September 2021 |archive-date=4 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210904074539/https://www.sauber-group.com/motorsport/f1-news/robert-kubica-to-compete-in-the-2021-dutch-grand-prix/ |url-status=live }} Räikkönen was also replaced by Kubica at the subsequent Italian Grand Prix.{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.raikkonen-ruled-out-of-italian-grand-prix-with-kubica-set-to-deputise-again.4y6i0KS8Fm7AEeYdzFJSmX.html|title=Raikkonen ruled out of Italian Grand Prix, with Kubica set to deputise again for Alfa Romeo|website=Formula1|date=8 September 2021|access-date=8 September 2021|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909014104/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.raikkonen-ruled-out-of-italian-grand-prix-with-kubica-set-to-deputise-again.4y6i0KS8Fm7AEeYdzFJSmX.html|url-status=live}}

Nikita Mazepin tested positive for coronavirus during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend, and was not replaced for the race as Haas did not field a third driver in free practice.{{cite web|last=Edmondson|first=Laurence|title=Nikita Mazepin to miss Abu Dhabi GP after testing positive for COVID|url=https://www.espn.co.uk/f1/story/_/id/32850094/nikita-mazepin-miss-abu-dhabi-gp-testing-positive-covid|work=ESPN|date=12 December 2021|access-date=11 December 2024}}

The 2021 calendar consisted of twenty-two events, which were subject to the permissive COVID-19 regulations set by local governments and the Formula One Group.{{Cite news |url= https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2021/aug/12/f1s-off-track-drama-heats-up-as-covid-threatens-to-scupper-busy-schedule |title= F1's off-track drama heats up as Covid threatens to scupper busy schedule |last= Richards |first= Giles |date= 12 August 2021 |access-date= 13 August 2021 |work= The Guardian |archive-date= 6 October 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20211006165726/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2021/aug/12/f1s-off-track-drama-heats-up-as-covid-threatens-to-scupper-busy-schedule |url-status= live }} The British, Italian and São Paulo Grands Prix featured the sprint qualifying format.{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-sprint-qualifying-to-debut-at-three-grands-prix-in-2021-following.1v9LRuPpTk9JXpmE5xK4sK.html|title=Sprint Qualifying to debut at three Grands Prix in 2021 following unanimous agreement from teams|website=Formula1.com|date=26 April 2021|access-date=26 April 2021|archive-date=8 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508120723/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-sprint-qualifying-to-debut-at-three-grands-prix-in-2021-following.1v9LRuPpTk9JXpmE5xK4sK.html|url-status=live}}

The following rounds were planned, but were cancelled in response to the COVID-19 pandemic:

Liberty Media, the sport's commercial rights holders, announced that there would be scope for the 2021 calendar to expand beyond the planned twenty-two races of the 2020 calendar.{{cite news|url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2019/05/10/two-new-events-expected-for-2020-f1-calendar/|title=Two new events expected for 2020 F1 calendar|first=Mat|last=Coch|work=speedcafe.com |date=10 May 2019|access-date=10 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190822174219/https://www.speedcafe.com/2019/05/10/two-new-events-expected-for-2020-f1-calendar/|archive-date=22 August 2019|url-status=live}} The sporting regulations were amended to allow for a maximum of twenty-five Grands Prix per year.{{cite web|title=2021 F1 rules: The Key Changes Explained|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.2021-f1-rules-the-key-changes-explained.2dCtCkxNofk20K1B4rJwTk.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201010053237/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.2021-f1-rules-the-key-changes-explained.2dCtCkxNofk20K1B4rJwTk.html|archive-date=10 October 2020|access-date=24 December 2019|website=Formula1|publisher=Formula One Administration}}

• The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola, which was originally intended to be held as a one-off event in 2020, was the second round of the championship.
• The Portuguese Grand Prix, which was originally intended to make a one-off return in 2020 at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portimão, was the third round of the championship.{{cite news|author=Andrew Benson|date=10 February 2021|title=Portuguese Grand Prix: Formula 1 secures confirmation Portugal can host race on 2 May|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/56012819|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210210133914/https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/56012819|archive-date=10 February 2021|access-date=10 February 2021|work=BBC Sport}}
• The Styrian Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg, which was originally intended to be a one-off race in 2020, was the eighth round of the championship, meaning the circuit hosted back-to-back races for a second season in a row.
• The Dutch Grand Prix was revived,{{cite news|date=14 May 2019|title=Dutch Grand Prix to return at Zandvoort from 2020|website=Formula1|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.dutch-grand-prix-to-return-at-zandvoort-from-2020.1OTLRqLZB6mXdD1VPyHiNx.html|url-status=live|access-date=14 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190514091127/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.dutch-grand-prix-to-return-at-zandvoort-from-2020.1OTLRqLZB6mXdD1VPyHiNx.html|archive-date=14 May 2019}} with the race taking place at the Circuit Zandvoort.{{cite news|title=Why the chance of a revived F1 Dutch Grand Prix is so realistic|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/141393/why-a-revived-dutch-gp-is-so-realistic|first1=Erwin|last1=Jaeggi|first2=Scott|last2=Mitchell|work=Autosport |date=8 February 2019|access-date=10 February 2019|url-access=limited|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190212070501/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/141393/why-a-revived-dutch-gp-is-so-realistic|archive-date=12 February 2019|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/143385/dutch-grand-prix-seals-return-to-f1-calendar|title=Dutch Grand Prix seals return to Formula 1 calendar for 2020|first=Scott|last=Mitchell|work=Autosport |date=14 May 2019|access-date=14 May 2019|url-access=limited|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190514100104/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/143385/dutch-grand-prix-seals-return-to-f1-calendar|archive-date=14 May 2019|url-status=live}} The race marked the first time the Dutch Grand Prix has been run since {{F1|1985}}. The Dutch Grand Prix had been included on the 2020 calendar, but was cancelled in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.{{cite news|last=Coch|first=Mat|date=28 May 2020|title=Organisers confirm cancellation of Dutch Grand Prix|work=speedcafe.com|url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2020/05/28/organisers-confirm-cancellation-of-dutch-grand-prix/|url-status=live|access-date=28 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200918172054/https://www.speedcafe.com/2020/05/28/organisers-confirm-cancellation-of-dutch-grand-prix/|archive-date=18 September 2020}}
• The Turkish Grand Prix at Istanbul Park in Istanbul, which was originally intended to make a one-off return in 2020, was the sixteenth round of the championship.{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-turkish-grand-prix-to-rejoin-2021-formula-1-calendar.7JsDzHsgxu26IxaOmPVnOX.html|title=Turkish Grand Prix to rejoin 2021 Formula 1 calendar|website=Formula1|date=25 June 2021|access-date=25 June 2021|archive-date=25 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625090500/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-turkish-grand-prix-to-rejoin-2021-formula-1-calendar.7JsDzHsgxu26IxaOmPVnOX.html|url-status=live}}
• The Qatar Grand Prix made its debut, with the race held at the Losail International Circuit, the venue which has hosted the Qatar motorcycle Grand Prix since 2004. Further plans to have the Grand Prix into the calendar on a 10-year contract from {{F1|2023}} onwards at a new purpose-built circuit were also revealed, before being retained in Lusail.{{cite web|last=Cooper|first=Adam|date=30 September 2021|title=F1 confirms Qatar GP on 2021 calendar as part of long-term deal|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/f1-confirms-qatar-gp-on-2021-calendar-as-part-of-long-term-deal/6678313/|url-status=live|access-date=30 September 2021|website=Autosport.com|publisher=Motorsport Network|quote=There will be no Grand Prix in {{F1|2022}} as the country will focus on hosting the FIFA World Cup that will start exactly a year after the first Formula One race. The event will then return in {{F1|2023}}, originally planned to be moved to a new purpose-built circuit in the planning stages, before being retained in Lusail.|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210930090506/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/f1-confirms-qatar-gp-on-2021-calendar-as-part-of-long-term-deal/6678313/ |archive-date=30 September 2021 }} The race took place at night, the fourth venue which hosted a night race after the Singapore, Bahrain and Sakhir Grands Prix.{{efn|name=Abu Dhabi Grand Prix|The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is a day-to-night race.}}
• The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix also made its debut, with the race held on a temporary circuit in the city of Jeddah.{{cite web|date=5 November 2020|title=F1 adds Saudi Arabian Grand Prix night race to 2021 calendar|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.f1-adds-saudi-arabian-grand-prix-night-race-to-2021-calendar.49pVgTPyYV0KBJrOwtqUCN.html|access-date=5 November 2020|website=Formula1|publisher=Formula One Administration|archive-date=27 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127001602/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.f1-adds-saudi-arabian-grand-prix-night-race-to-2021-calendar.49pVgTPyYV0KBJrOwtqUCN.html|url-status=live}} Further plans to move the Grand Prix to Qiddiya in 2023 were also made public, before being retained in Jeddah.{{Cite news|last=Smith|first=Luke|date=27 October 2020|title=F1 set for 23-race calendar in 2021 featuring new Saudi Arabia race|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/153119/f1-to-add-saudi-arabia-to-23race-calendar-in-2021|access-date=29 October 2020|work=Autosport|archive-date=30 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201030214424/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/153119/f1-to-add-saudi-arabia-to-23race-calendar-in-2021|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|date=17 January 2020|title=New Saudi Arabia circuit in Qiddiya could host F1 race from 2023|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/147930/saudi-arabia-could-host-f1-race-from-2023|access-date=29 October 2020|work=Autosport|archive-date=24 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224152751/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/147930/saudi-arabia-could-host-f1-race-from-2023|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.f1-announces-24-race-calendar-for-2023.7oNRaq4kZ2bwTAmL7r6dqg.html|title=F1 announces 24-race calendar for 2023|website=Formula1.com|date=20 September 2022|access-date=20 September 2022|archive-date=23 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220923220952/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.f1-announces-24-race-calendar-for-2023.7oNRaq4kZ2bwTAmL7r6dqg.html|url-status=live}} The race also took place at night, becoming the fifth venue to host a night race after the Singapore, Bahrain, Sakhir and Qatar Grands Prix.{{efn|name=Abu Dhabi Grand Prix}}
• The Vietnamese Grand Prix would have made its debut, with the race scheduled to take place in the capital Hanoi on the Hanoi Circuit. The Vietnamese Grand Prix had been included on the 2020 calendar, but was cancelled in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.{{cite web|date=16 October 2020|title=Cancellation of the 2020 Vinfast Vietnam Grand Prix|url=https://www.f1vietnamgp.com/news/f1-vietnam-grand-prix/cancellation-of-the-2020-f1-vietnam-p260|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201022023624/https://www.f1vietnamgp.com/news/f1-vietnam-grand-prix/cancellation-of-the-2020-f1-vietnam-p260|archive-date=22 October 2020|access-date=16 October 2020|publisher=Vietnam Grand Prix}} The Grand Prix was dropped from the 2021 calendar because of the arrest on corruption charges of former Hanoi chairman Nguyễn Đức Chung, a key official responsible for organising the race.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/54879815|title=Vietnamese Grand Prix dropped from 2021 F1 schedule|work=BBC Sport|author=Andrew Benson|date=9 November 2020|access-date=9 November 2020|archive-date=31 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201231050025/https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/54879815|url-status=live}}

Further changes to the calendar are planned following the disruption to the 2020 championship brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic:

• The Azerbaijan and Monaco Grands Prix returned to the calendar.{{cite news|date=8 February 2016|title=Azerbaijan signs 10-year-contract for holding Formula-1|work=Trend|url=http://en.trend.az/azerbaijan/society/2491434.html|url-status=dead|access-date=12 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612162322/https://en.trend.az/azerbaijan/society/2491434.html|archive-date=12 June 2018}}{{cite news|date=19 May 2020|title=Monaco announces date for 2021 Grand Prix|work=GrandPrix247|url=https://www.grandprix247.com/2020/05/19/monaco-announces-date-for-2021-grand-prix/|url-status=live|access-date=19 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200818115638/https://www.grandprix247.com/2020/05/19/monaco-announces-date-for-2021-grand-prix/|archive-date=18 August 2020}}{{cite news|last=van Leeuwen|first=Andrew|title=Singapore Grand Prix to stay on Formula 1 calendar to at least 2021|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/131808/singapore-gp-extends-f1-deal|url-access=limited|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180508013008/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/131808/singapore-gp-extends-f1-deal|archive-date=8 May 2018|access-date=12 May 2018|work=Autosport}} These Grands Prix were removed from the re-issued 2020 schedule because of the logistical difficulties associated with establishing a street circuit on short notice.{{cite web|date=19 March 2020|title=Monaco announce cancellation of 2020 F1 race due to coronavirus|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.monaco-announce-cancellation-2020-f1-race.4tpwalvxWpDL0uwRMnV9TI.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024191629/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.monaco-announce-cancellation-2020-f1-race.4tpwalvxWpDL0uwRMnV9TI.html|archive-date=24 October 2020|access-date=19 May 2020|website=Formula1|publisher=Formula One World Championship Ltd.}}{{cite web|date=12 June 2020|title=F1 confirm 2020 Azerbaijan, Singapore and Japanese Grands Prix have been cancelled|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.f1-confirm-2020-azerbaijan-singapore-and-japanese-grands-prix-have-been.53mR0P305L9eUmDJXYOFoh.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024192543/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.f1-confirm-2020-azerbaijan-singapore-and-japanese-grands-prix-have-been.53mR0P305L9eUmDJXYOFoh.html|archive-date=24 October 2020|access-date=6 June 2020|website=Formula1}}
• The Brazilian, French and United States Grands Prix also return.{{cite web|last1=Rencken|first1=Dieter|date=25 April 2018|title=How Ecclestone's parting shot to Liberty added to their F1 calendar woes|url=https://www.racefans.net/2018/04/25/ecclestone-parting-shot-liberty-f1-calendar-headache/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200527215505/https://www.racefans.net/2018/04/25/ecclestone-parting-shot-liberty-f1-calendar-headache/|archive-date=27 May 2020|access-date=20 May 2018|website=RaceFans}}{{Cite news|last=Richards|first=Giles|date=23 June 2018|title=Losing F1 'a huge mistake' says man behind French Grand Prix's revival|work=The Observer|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/jun/23/french-grand-prix-paul-ricard-preview|url-status=live|access-date=8 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190508225038/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/jun/23/french-grand-prix-paul-ricard-preview|archive-date=8 May 2019|issn=0029-7712}} The 2020 races, together with the debut of the Mexico City Grand Prix, were cancelled because of the pandemic.{{cite web|date=27 April 2020|title=Organisers confirm 2020 French Grand Prix will not go ahead|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.organisers-confirm-2020-french-grand-prix-will-not-go-ahead.6kEi9Sb68ZPJxlxgsgm4nQ.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201023054915/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.organisers-confirm-2020-french-grand-prix-will-not-go-ahead.6kEi9Sb68ZPJxlxgsgm4nQ.html|archive-date=23 October 2020|access-date=27 April 2020|website=Formula1}} The returning Brazilian Grand Prix was renamed as the São Paulo Grand Prix in deference to the increased involvement from local government.{{cite web|title=Sao Paulo's Interlagos Circuit to host Brazilian Grand Prix until 2025|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.sao-paulos-interlagos-circuit-to-host-brazilian-grand-prix-until-2025.7d5nbQbkoQy7QxL4TEojO.html|access-date=16 December 2020|website=Formula One|archive-date=16 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201216193841/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.sao-paulos-interlagos-circuit-to-host-brazilian-grand-prix-until-2025.7d5nbQbkoQy7QxL4TEojO.html|url-status=live}}
• The 70th Anniversary, Eifel, Sakhir and Tuscan Grands Prix were not included in the list of 2021 races. These Grands Prix were specifically introduced into the 2020 calendar in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, to ensure that as many races as possible could be held.{{cite web|title=F1 confirms first 8 races of revised 2020 calendar, starting with Austria double header|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.f1-confirms-first-8-races-of-revised-2020-calendar-starting-with-austria.36X98qZnFFhNxQ8O2WdCON.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201023143136/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.f1-confirms-first-8-races-of-revised-2020-calendar-starting-with-austria.36X98qZnFFhNxQ8O2WdCON.html|archive-date=23 October 2020|access-date=2 June 2020|website=Formula1|publisher=Formula One World Championship Ltd.}}

Liberty Media was also reported to have come to an agreement in principle with race organisers to host a second race in the United States. Plans to hold the race at a circuit in Miami Gardens were unveiled.{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.agreement-in-principle-reached-to-host-the-first-ever-miami-grand-prix.7g1h0DlZ9jcye40dsJ4obG.html|title=Agreement in principle reached to host the first-ever Miami Grand Prix|website=Formula1|access-date=19 October 2019|date=19 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191019045839/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.agreement-in-principle-reached-to-host-the-first-ever-miami-grand-prix.7g1h0DlZ9jcye40dsJ4obG.html|archive-date=19 October 2019|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2019/10/16/formula-1-signs-agreement-with-promoter-for-second-usgp/|title=Formula 1 signs agreement with promoter for second USGP|first=Mat|last=Coch|work=speedcafe.com |date=16 October 2019|access-date=16 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191016025819/https://www.speedcafe.com/2019/10/16/formula-1-signs-agreement-with-promoter-for-second-usgp/|archive-date=16 October 2019|url-status=live}} A second proposal to move the former Brazilian Grand Prix from São Paulo to a new circuit in Rio de Janeiro was also suspended.{{cite news|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/153465/sao-paulo-to-keep-f1-brazilian-gp-until-2025|title=Sao Paulo agrees deal with F1 to host Brazilian GP until 2025|author=Jonathan Noble|date=12 November 2020|work=Autosport|access-date=12 November 2020|archive-date=14 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114162101/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/153465/sao-paulo-to-keep-f1-brazilian-gp-until-2025|url-status=live}}

{{See also|Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on motorsport}}

The original calendar that was approved by the FIA World Motor Sport Council included the Chinese Grand Prix, which was due to take place on 11 April. However, the event was postponed and later cancelled, due to travel restrictions. The {{Not a typo|Emilia Romagna Grand Prix}} at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola, which was originally intended to be a one-off Grand Prix in 2020, was retained in its place. Additionally, the Australian Grand Prix, which had been due to take place on 21 March as the inaugural Grand Prix of the championship, was postponed to 21 November. On 6 July 2021, the postponement of the Australian Grand Prix was revised to be a cancellation for a second consecutive year, due to low vaccination rates and travel restrictions in place in Victoria.{{cite web|title=2021 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix cancelled|url=https://www.grandprix.com.au/fan-zone/news/2021-formula-1-australian-grand-prix-cancelled|access-date=7 July 2021|website=Grand Prix.com|archive-date=22 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211122233523/https://www.grandprix.com.au/fan-zone/news/2021-formula-1-australian-grand-prix-cancelled|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last1=Morgan|first1=Cassandra|last2=Fowler|first2=Michael|date=6 July 2021|title=Australian Grand Prix cancelled again due to COVID-19|url=https://www.smh.com.au/sport/motorsport/australian-grand-prix-set-to-be-cancelled-again-due-to-covid-19-20210706-p5877g.html|access-date=7 July 2021|website=The Sydney Morning Herald|publisher=Nine Entertainment Co. Pty Ltd|quote=He pointed to low vaccination rates, national cabinet's decision to halve international arrival caps for returning Australians and Formula One requiring a decision on the event by the end of the week as the crucial factors.|archive-date=6 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210706153923/https://www.smh.com.au/sport/motorsport/australian-grand-prix-set-to-be-cancelled-again-due-to-covid-19-20210706-p5877g.html|url-status=live}} The dates for the São Paulo, Saudi Arabian and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix were changed to accommodate this.

On 28 April 2021, the Canadian Grand Prix was cancelled for a second consecutive year and was replaced by the Turkish Grand Prix, originally intended to make a one-off return in 2020.{{cite web|title=Turkey to replace Canada on 2021 F1 race calendar|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.turkey-to-replace-canada-on-2021-f1-race-calendar.5oXc8g8NfkRUrlydMahSVF.html|website=Formula1|date=28 April 2021|access-date=28 April 2021|archive-date=4 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210504183948/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.turkey-to-replace-canada-on-2021-f1-race-calendar.5oXc8g8NfkRUrlydMahSVF.html|url-status=live}} On 14 May 2021, the Turkish Grand Prix was postponed due to the British government imposing a ten-day hotel quarantine on travellers from Turkey into the United Kingdom. As a result, the French Grand Prix was moved forward a week and the Styrian Grand Prix, which was originally intended to be a one-off race in 2020, was added to the calendar in its place. On 4 June 2021, the Singapore Grand Prix, which was originally due to take place on 3 October, was cancelled due to ongoing safety and logistic concerns and was replaced by the re-joined Turkish Grand Prix.{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-turkish-grand-prix-to-rejoin-2021-formula-1-calendar.7JsDzHsgxu26IxaOmPVnOX.html|title=Turkish Grand Prix to rejoin 2021 Formula 1 calendar|website=Formula1|date=25 June 2021|access-date=25 June 2021|archive-date=25 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625090500/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-turkish-grand-prix-to-rejoin-2021-formula-1-calendar.7JsDzHsgxu26IxaOmPVnOX.html|url-status=live}}

On 18 August 2021, the Japanese Grand Prix was cancelled for a second consecutive year.{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.formula-1-confirms-2021-japanese-grand-prix-has-been-cancelled.2Cn8r5e6lIm00IW984WnfW.html|title=Formula 1 confirms 2021 Japanese Grand Prix has been cancelled|website=Formula 1.com|date=18 August 2021|access-date=18 August 2021|archive-date=19 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211219224043/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.formula-1-confirms-2021-japanese-grand-prix-has-been-cancelled.2Cn8r5e6lIm00IW984WnfW.html|url-status=live}} The race calendar was revised again on 28 August 2021, consisting of twenty-two Grands Prix, with the Turkish, Mexico City and São Paulo Grands Prix moved a week later, the round in which the cancelled Australian Grand Prix was due to take place left empty in order to replace it, and the confirmation that the Japanese Grand Prix would not be replaced. On 30 September 2021 the new Qatar Grand Prix was announced in place of the cancelled Australian Grand Prix.{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-qatar-to-join-f1-calendar-in-2021-as-country-signs-additional-10.50lbiJcZfoo6udNWZMDAn6.html|title=Qatar to join F1 calendar in 2021, as country signs additional 10-year deal from 2023|website=Formula1|date=30 September 2021|access-date=30 September 2021|archive-date=27 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211227023609/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-qatar-to-join-f1-calendar-in-2021-as-country-signs-additional-10.50lbiJcZfoo6udNWZMDAn6.html|url-status=live}}

The 2021 championship was originally due to introduce significant changes to the regulations, including the sport's governance, car designs and the sporting rules but these were delayed in March 2020 in response to the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.{{cite news|last=Cooper|first=Adam|date=19 March 2020|title=F1 teams pushing to postpone '21 cars amid coronavirus uncertainty|work=Autosport|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/148714/teams-pushing-to-delay-introduction-of-21-cars|url-status=live|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200918221704/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/148714/teams-pushing-to-delay-introduction-of-21-cars|archive-date=18 September 2020}} These rule changes were instead introduced in {{F1|2022}}.{{cite news|last=Herrero|first=Daniel|date=20 March 2020|title=Formula 1's new regulations delayed until 2022|work=speedcafe.com|url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2020/03/20/formula-1s-new-regulations-delayed-until-2022/|url-status=live|access-date=20 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201021124823/https://www.speedcafe.com/2020/03/20/formula-1s-new-regulations-delayed-until-2022/|archive-date=21 October 2020}}

The championship introduced a budget cap, with teams limited to spending a maximum of $145 million per year.{{cite web|date=6 April 2020|title=F1 teams agree to reduce 2021 budget cap |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2020/04/06/f1-teams-agree-to-reduce-2021-budget-cap/ |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200918152222/https://www.speedcafe.com/2020/04/06/f1-teams-agree-to-reduce-2021-budget-cap/|archive-date=18 September 2020|website=speedcafe.com}}{{cite web|date=4 May 2020|title=F1 plans immediate reduction in new budget cap, reveals Brawn|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-news-f1-plans-immediate-reduction-in-new-budget-cap-reveals-brawn.3ABXVY0AEr3Ad6ZfJh7yHN.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201012105754/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-news-f1-plans-immediate-reduction-in-new-budget-cap-reveals-brawn.3ABXVY0AEr3Ad6ZfJh7yHN.html|archive-date=12 October 2020|access-date=4 May 2020|website=Formula1}}{{efn|Teams had originally agreed to a budget cap of $175 million per year, but this figure was revised to $145 million in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.}} Teams were required to use more commercially available materials and to submit their annual expenditure.{{Cite news|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/143944/f1-2021-cost-cap-figure-set-at-175million|title=Formula 1 cost cap figure from 2021 season set to be $175million|first=Adam|last=Cooper|work=Autosport |url-access=limited|access-date=7 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190607233126/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/143944/f1-2021-cost-cap-figure-set-at-175million|archive-date=7 June 2019|url-status=live}} Some teams argued to further reduce the budget cap to $100 million, citing concerns that the long-term financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic threatens the future of as many as four teams.{{cite news |date=16 April 2020 |title=Formula One risks losing teams due to the coronavirus crisis, says McLaren principal Andreas Seidl |work=ABC News |url=https://mobile.abc.net.au/news/2020-04-16/we-need-big-changes-mclaren-boss-virus-wakeup-call-unhealthy-f1/12152524|url-status=live|access-date=16 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200913085415/https://mobile.abc.net.au/news/2020-04-16/we-need-big-changes-mclaren-boss-virus-wakeup-call-unhealthy-f1/12152524|archive-date=13 September 2020}}{{cite news|last=Smith|first=Luke|date=16 April 2020|title=Seidl: F1 will survive COVID-19 crisis, but not all teams certain to|work=Autosport |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/149041/f1-will-survive-crisis-but-not-all-teams-certain-to|url-status=live|access-date=16 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200831215319/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/149041/f1-will-survive-crisis-but-not-all-teams-certain-to|archive-date=31 August 2020}} Formula One managing director Ross Brawn stated that the sport's intention is to reduce the budget cap further in the coming years.

The value of the budget cap was set for twenty-one races; each additional race increased the budget cap by $1 million, and vice versa: each race removed from the scheduled twenty-one race calendar deducted the budget cap by $1 million. However, the budget cap did not include marketing budget, drivers' salaries, and the salaries of the team's top three executives. In addition, under a later agreement among the teams regarding the introduction of sprint qualifying races, each team received an additional $500,000 for the three sprint qualifying races on top of the current budget cap, and further flexibility on budget cap in case the cars got damaged during the sprint qualifying races.{{cite web|url=https://us.motorsport.com/f1/news/f1-sprint-race-plan-set-for-green-light-as-teams-agree-finances/6132598/|title=F1 sprint race plan set for green light as teams agree finances|website=us.motorsport.com|date=7 April 2021 |access-date=26 June 2021|archive-date=3 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210603013827/https://us.motorsport.com/f1/news/f1-sprint-race-plan-set-for-green-light-as-teams-agree-finances/6132598/|url-status=live}} There were also additional restrictions dictating how prize money can be spent.{{cite news|url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2019/06/19/f1-boss-confident-cost-cap-can-be-policed/|title=F1 boss confident cost cap can be policed|first=Mat|last=Coch|work=speedcafe.com|date=19 June 2019|access-date=19 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190822221215/https://www.speedcafe.com/2019/06/19/f1-boss-confident-cost-cap-can-be-policed/|archive-date=22 August 2019|url-status=live}} The cap only applied to expenditure related to car performance, which remained in place until 2026.{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.what-is-the-2021-f1-cost-cap-and-how-will-it-be-enforced.4l0LPbfFgBhDxjccMseCHO.html|title=2021 F1 financial rules and regulations: What is the cost cap and how will it be enforced?|date=31 October 2019|website=Formula1|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191031232555/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.what-is-the-2021-f1-cost-cap-and-how-will-it-be-enforced.4l0LPbfFgBhDxjccMseCHO.html|archive-date=31 October 2019|access-date=31 October 2019}} In the event that a team broke the financial regulations, the team can be penalised. It was originally planned a range of punishments for exceeding their annual budget, which include being deducted championship points, having reduced testing time, a race ban, or—for the most severe cases—disqualification from the championship. However, Toto Wolff later revealed that the intended sporting penalties such as points deductions and reduced testing for budget cap breaches would not be handed out, having been voted down by three teams including Red Bull and Ferrari.{{cite web |title=Three teams voted against budget cap penalties |url=https://competitions.planetf1.com/sport/three-teams-voted-against-budget-cap-penalties-1296132.html |website=Planet-f1.com |publisher=Planet-F1 |access-date=5 May 2021 |archive-date=26 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210526173748/https://competitions.planetf1.com/sport/three-teams-voted-against-budget-cap-penalties-1296132.html |url-status=live }}

Teams were limited in what components could be modified for the 2021 season, with this requirement introduced to ease financial pressures on teams brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.{{cite web|date=19 June 2020|title=2021 Formula One Technical Regulations|url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/2021_formula_1_technical_regulations_-_iss_5_-_2020-06-19_1.pdf|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200913143240/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/2021_formula_1_technical_regulations_-_iss_5_-_2020-06-19_1.pdf|archive-date=13 September 2020|access-date=24 August 2020|website=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile|page=5}}{{Cite news|last=Cooper|first=Adam|date=21 June 2020|title=FIA reveals tweaks to 2020 Formula 1 parts freeze rules |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/150090/fia-reveals-tweaks-to-2020-f1-parts-freeze-rules|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919005929/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/150090/fia-reveals-tweaks-to-2020-f1-parts-freeze-rules|archive-date=19 September 2020|access-date=24 August 2020 |work=Autosport}} The teams were allowed to apply for special dispensation to make changes, most notably in the case of McLaren, who were given permission to modify their car to accommodate the switch from Renault to Mercedes engines.{{cite web|date=26 March 2020 |title=McLaren allowed to change chassis for new engine|url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2020/03/26/mclaren-allowed-to-change-chassis-for-new-engine/ |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919083417/https://www.speedcafe.com/2020/03/26/mclaren-allowed-to-change-chassis-for-new-engine/|archive-date=19 September 2020|website=speedcafe.com}} This prompted the FIA to introduce a token system whereby teams were given a series of tokens which could be exchanged for the introduction of specific component upgrades.{{cite web|last=Carvalho|first=Ronan|date=16 June 2020|title=Ross Brawn opens up on the major compromise the FIA made for McLaren|url=https://www.essentiallysports.com/f1-news-ross-brawn-opens-up-on-the-major-compromise-the-fia-made-for-mclaren/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200727204504/https://www.essentiallysports.com/f1-news-ross-brawn-opens-up-on-the-major-compromise-the-fia-made-for-mclaren/|archive-date=27 July 2020|access-date=17 June 2020|website=EssentiallySports}}{{cite web|date=2 June 2020|title=Six key questions about F1's new token system answered|url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/six-key-questions-about-f1s-new-token-system-answered/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201012115931/https://the-race.com/formula-1/six-key-questions-about-f1s-new-token-system-answered/|archive-date=12 October 2020|access-date=20 August 2020|website=The Race}}

Some aerodynamic rule changes were enacted by the FIA. The floor of the cars were 'clipped' in order to reduce downforce for 2021. In 2020, the floor was permitted to run in a straight line from an area adjacent to the cockpit back to a point ahead of the rear tyre. However, from 2021 that point ahead of the tyre was moved {{Convert|100|mm|in|abbr=}} inboard, making the floor edge a diagonal line when viewed from above. This change was expected to reduce downforce levels by 5%.{{cite web|last=|first=|date=27 May 2020|title=The key performance area being closed off as F1 trims 2021 downforce levels|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.revealed-the-key-performance-area-being-closed-off-as-f1-trims-2021.3vEQAuYGUJxGteSx3JEmKi.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201129201924/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.revealed-the-key-performance-area-being-closed-off-as-f1-trims-2021.3vEQAuYGUJxGteSx3JEmKi.html|archive-date=29 November 2020|access-date=5 February 2021|website=Formula1}}{{cite web|last1=Hughes|first1=Mark|last2=Piola|first2=Giorgio|date=2 June 2020|title=What does the 2021 aero rules change mean for the cars – and which teams will it hurt most?|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.what-does-the-2021-aero-rules-change-mean-for-the-cars-and-which-teams-will.4UDFqT5FCn6Ix49mcn0wDt.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200921025847/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.what-does-the-2021-aero-rules-change-mean-for-the-cars-and-which-teams-will.4UDFqT5FCn6Ix49mcn0wDt.html|archive-date=21 September 2020|access-date=5 February 2021|website=Formula1}} Further, some slots on the edge of the floor were removed, brake duct winglets were narrowed by {{Convert|40|mm|in|abbr=}} and diffuser fences were narrowed by {{Convert|50|mm|in|abbr=}}. These three changes have reduced downforce levels by a further 5%, meaning the 2021 regulations have seen a total 10% reduction in downforce. However, the teams increased downforce by 4–5% over the winter, so the overall downforce reduction was approximately 5%.{{cite web|last=|first=|date=29 August 2020|title=FIA outline proposed downforce changes for 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.fia-outline-proposed-downforce-changes-for-2021.5HSlKqiM9wWNPRYHzPSqqu.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201101044927/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.fia-outline-proposed-downforce-changes-for-2021.5HSlKqiM9wWNPRYHzPSqqu.html|archive-date=1 November 2020|access-date=5 February 2021|website=Formula1}}

The "dual-axis steering" (DAS) system developed by Mercedes in 2020 was banned, starting from 2021.{{Cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=31 March 2020|title=Formula 1: Mercedes revolutionary 'DAS' steering remains banned for 2021 |work=BBC Sport |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/52087215|url-status=live|access-date=31 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200918185233/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/52087215|archive-date=18 September 2020}} The DAS system allowed the driver to adjust the toe of the front wheels to optimise mechanical grip by pulling or pushing on the steering wheel.{{Cite news|date=20 February 2020|title=Mercedes confident 'dual-axis steering' system for 2020 within F1 rules |work=BBC Sport |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/51576106|url-status=live|access-date=20 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222033727/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/51576106|archive-date=22 February 2020}} The FIA introduced newly revised wing load tests mid-season at the French Grand Prix to clamp down on potentially excessively flexing rear wings. This comes after Lewis Hamilton and his Mercedes team had claimed, at the Spanish Grand Prix, that the rear wing of the Red Bull RB16B flexed significantly at high speed and load, allowing greater top speeds. Under 2021 Formula One regulations wings must be immobile and rigidly attached to the bodywork.{{cite news |last1=Benson |first1=Andrew |title=Formula 1 clamps down on flexible rear wings after Lewis Hamilton's Red Bull claim |work=BBC Sport |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/57086036 |access-date=31 May 2021 |archive-date=3 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210603001220/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/57086036 |url-status=live }}

From the Belgian Grand Prix onwards a new technical directive was enforced surrounding pit stop equipment after concerns teams were flouting the article 12.8.4 of Formula One technical regulations that state that pit equipment may only be filled with compressed air or nitrogen and that sensors on this equipment must 'act passively' to achieve quicker pit stop times and potentially meaning cars could be released in an unsafe condition. To help enforce this new tolerance parameters will be introduced of 0.15 seconds from when the tyres have been fitted and tightened to the dropping of the jack and 0.2 seconds from the dropping of the jack to a car being released by the pit crew.{{cite web |title=FIA intervene with new rule to slow down pit stops |url=https://www.planetf1.com/news/fia-change-pit-stop-rules/ |website=www.planetf1.com |date=25 June 2021 |publisher=Planet F1 |access-date=25 June 2021 |archive-date=25 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625092252/https://www.planetf1.com/news/fia-change-pit-stop-rules/ |url-status=live }} The change was originally supposed to come in for the Hungarian Grand Prix, but was postponed.{{cite web|date=18 July 2021|title=New F1 pitstop rules changed and delayed|url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/new-formula-1-pitstop-rules-changed-and-delayed/|access-date=10 September 2021|website=The Race|archive-date=10 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210910173109/https://the-race.com/formula-1/new-formula-1-pitstop-rules-changed-and-delayed/|url-status=live}} In a further clarification the FIA will have the means of ensuring the new tolerance limits are adhered to by using an intelligent wheel gun.{{cite web|last=Woodhouse|first=Jamie|date=25 June 2021|title=FIA intervene to slow down pit stops with new ruling|url=https://www.planetf1.com/news/fia-change-pit-stop-rules/|access-date=10 September 2021|website=PlanetF1|archive-date=25 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625092252/https://www.planetf1.com/news/fia-change-pit-stop-rules/|url-status=live}}

It was originally proposed that teams would be required to allow a driver who had competed in fewer than two {{not a typo|Grands Prix}} to replace one of their race drivers in a Friday practice session over the course of the season. Whilst these rules were intended to give a chance to more non-Formula One drivers to test a Formula One car, the wording of this rule meant that teams satisfy the requirement if one of their regular drivers was in their rookie season.{{cite news |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/146918/f1-teams-obliged-to-run-rookies-in-two-fp1s-in-21|title=F1 teams obliged to run rookies in two FP1 sessions in 2021|last=Mitchell|first=Scott|date=1 November 2019|work=Autosport|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191101092335/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/146918/f1-teams-obliged-to-run-rookies-in-two-fp1s-in-21|archive-date=1 November 2019|access-date=1 November 2019|url-access=limited}}{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.2021-regulations-to-offer-more-opportunities-for-young-drivers.jIR3iFq89dvF0axUKJPvD.html|title=2021 F1 rules: New regulations to offer more opportunities for young drivers|date=1 November 2019|website=Formula1|url-status=live|access-date=1 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191101142243/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.2021-regulations-to-offer-more-opportunities-for-young-drivers.jIR3iFq89dvF0axUKJPvD.html|archive-date=1 November 2019}} Such rules were instead implemented for the 2022 season.{{cite web|last1=Collantine|first1=Keith|last2=Rencken|first2=Dieter|date=11 September 2021|url=https://www.racefans.net/2021/09/11/f1-teams-will-have-to-run-rookies-in-practice-sessions-next-year/|title=F1 teams will have to run rookies in practice sessions next year|website=RaceFans|access-date=16 January 2022|archive-date=18 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220118182359/https://www.racefans.net/2021/09/11/f1-teams-will-have-to-run-rookies-in-practice-sessions-next-year/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Medland|first=Chris|date=28 September 2021|url=https://racer.com/2021/09/28/all-f1-teams-to-run-rookie-drivers-twice-in-2022/|title=All F1 teams to run rookie drivers twice in 2022|website=Racer|access-date=16 January 2022|archive-date=12 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211212234435/https://racer.com/2021/09/28/all-f1-teams-to-run-rookie-drivers-twice-in-2022/|url-status=live}}

Following the Mercedes tyre error during the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix, where George Russell was given front tyres allocated to Valtteri Bottas during a pit stop, the FIA had adjusted the rules on tyre usage; drivers using mixed compound sets or using sets allocated to another driver on their cars were permitted to complete two laps before the driver must pit to correct the error before facing a penalty. Under the previous rules, drivers could be disqualified as soon as such error had occurred.{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Luke|date=17 December 2020|title=FIA adjusts F1 tyre rule after Russell's Sakhir GP incident|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/fia-tweaks-tyre-rule-russell-sakhir-disqualification/4928694/|access-date=30 December 2020|website=motorsport.com|archive-date=23 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201223094839/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/fia-tweaks-tyre-rule-russell-sakhir-disqualification/4928694/|url-status=live}} The race time limit for red-flagged races was also reduced from four hours to three hours.{{cite news|url=https://www.pitpass.com/68931/Maximum-race-time-reduced-to-3-hours|title=Maximum race time reduced to 3 hours|work=pitpass.com|date=17 December 2020|access-date=17 December 2020|archive-date=17 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201217160446/https://www.pitpass.com/68931/Maximum-race-time-reduced-to-3-hours|url-status=live}} From the 2021 United States Grand Prix, lap times set under double waved yellow flags were automatically deleted.{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.drivers-to-have-lap-times-set-under-double-waved-yellows-deleted-from-us.4GIVeeemzQrrQGD8MvWots.html|title=Drivers to have lap times set under double waved yellows deleted from US Grand Prix|website=Formula1|date=21 October 2021|access-date=22 October 2021|archive-date=22 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211022010235/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.drivers-to-have-lap-times-set-under-double-waved-yellows-deleted-from-us.4GIVeeemzQrrQGD8MvWots.html|url-status=live}}

For the 2021 season, the schedule of a race weekend was revised. Under the pre-existing regulations, a race weekend spanned four days, with the Thursday before the race being reserved for media and promotional events and scrutineering; however, under the new regulations all of Thursday's events were moved to the Friday morning, with the times between activities on that day being reduced. Cars were under parc fermé conditions following the end of free practice three instead of qualifying, further restricting teams and drivers from making major changes to setups ahead of the race.{{Cite news |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/146915/how-f1-new-threeday-format-will-work|title=How F1's new three-day race weekend format from 2021 will work|last=Mitchell|first=Scott|date=31 October 2019|work=Autosport |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191031232554/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/146915/how-f1-new-threeday-format-will-work|archive-date=31 October 2019|access-date=31 October 2019|url-access=limited}} The length of the two Friday practice sessions were cut from 90 minutes (as had been the case since the {{F1|2007}} season) to 60 minutes.{{cite web|last=|first=|date=29 January 2021|title=2021 F1 Grand Prix start times confirmed – including a return to races starting on the hour|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.2021-f1-grand-prix-start-times-confirmed-including-a-return-to-races.2yVK1PdBmoXkjGKdAr2C3e.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204221426/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.2021-f1-grand-prix-start-times-confirmed-including-a-return-to-races.2yVK1PdBmoXkjGKdAr2C3e.html|archive-date=4 February 2021|access-date=5 February 2021|website=Formula1}}{{cite news|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12201947/f1-reverts-to-on-the-hour-start-times-for-2021-while-friday-practice-time-cut|title=F1 reverts to on-the-hour start times for 2021, while Friday Practice time cut|author=James Galloway |work=Sky Sports |date=29 January 2021|access-date=5 February 2021|archive-date=6 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210206095139/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12201947/f1-reverts-to-on-the-hour-start-times-for-2021-while-friday-practice-time-cut|url-status=live}} The 2021 W Series for female drivers was added to the list of support racing series alongside Formula 2, Formula 3, and Porsche Supercup. The 2021 W Series season started at the Red Bull Ring, where it was a support event for the Styrian Grand Prix in late June.{{cite web |last1=White |first1=Megan |title=W Series confirms calendar change as five-day Anglesey test begins |website=autosport.com |date=17 May 2021 |url=https://www.autosport.com/w-series/news/w-series-confirms-calendar-change-as-five-day-anglesey-test-begins/6510326/ |publisher=Autosport |access-date=17 May 2021 |archive-date=18 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210518124611/https://www.autosport.com/w-series/news/w-series-confirms-calendar-change-as-five-day-anglesey-test-begins/6510326/ |url-status=live }} It ended in late October at the Mexico City Grand Prix.{{Cite news|date=8 December 2020|title=W Series at British Grand Prix weekend|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/55230574|access-date=30 December 2020|archive-date=8 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201208130800/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/55230574|url-status=live}} Formula 2 and Formula 3 supported Formula One on alternate weekends, rather than the same ones as a cost saving measure.{{cite web |last=Walsh |first=Fergal |date=1 December 2020 |title=New three-race weekend format for F2 and F3 revealed|url=https://www.motorsportweek.com/2020/12/01/new-three-race-weekend-format-for-f2-and-f3-revealed/|access-date=30 December 2020 |website=Motorsport Week |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201201143128/https://www.motorsportweek.com/2020/12/01/new-three-race-weekend-format-for-f2-and-f3-revealed/ |url-status=live |archive-date=1 December 2020}}

There was a trial of sprint qualifying at the British,{{cite web |title=Silverstone host first Sprint Qualifying at the 2021 Formula 1 British Grand Prix |url=https://www.silverstone.co.uk/news/silverstone-host-first-sprint-qualifying-2021-formula-1-british-grand-prix |website=www.silverstone.co.uk |date=28 April 2021 |access-date=28 April 2021 |archive-date=30 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210430134704/https://www.silverstone.co.uk/news/silverstone-host-first-sprint-qualifying-2021-formula-1-british-grand-prix |url-status=live }} Italian,{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.session-times-confirmed-for-italian-gp-including-f1-sprint-at-monza.22CjKIBbiKS3rLcpDgOZ2Q.html|title=Session times confirmed for Italian GP – including F1 Sprint at Monza|website=Formula1|date=22 July 2021|access-date=22 July 2021|archive-date=30 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210730034757/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.session-times-confirmed-for-italian-gp-including-f1-sprint-at-monza.22CjKIBbiKS3rLcpDgOZ2Q.html|url-status=live}} and São Paulo Grands Prix.{{cite web|last=Woodhouse|first=Jamie|date=25 August 2021|title=Official: Brazil final sprint qualifying venue for 2021|url=https://www.planetf1.com/news/official-brazil-sprint-qualifying-2021/|access-date=11 September 2021|website=PlanetF1|archive-date=8 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211108220130/https://www.planetf1.com/news/official-brazil-sprint-qualifying-2021/|url-status=live}} Qualifying for these sprints took place on Friday afternoon in place of the normal second practice session and the sprints ran over the least number of laps to exceed {{Convert|100|km|abbr=on}}, approximately one third of a normal race distance. The result of the sprint race determined the starting grid for the main race. Three points were awarded to the winner of the sprint race, two points to the runner-up, and one point to the third-placed finisher;{{cite web |title=Sprint Qualifying to debut at three Grands Prix in 2021 following unanimous agreement from teams |website=Formula1 |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-sprint-qualifying-to-debut-at-three-grands-prix-in-2021-following.1v9LRuPpTk9JXpmE5xK4sK.html |url-status=live |access-date=27 April 2021 |date=26 April 2021 |archive-date=8 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508120723/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-sprint-qualifying-to-debut-at-three-grands-prix-in-2021-following.1v9LRuPpTk9JXpmE5xK4sK.html}} sprint races were set to be expanded for the {{F1|2022}} season.{{cite web|last=Collantine|first=Keith|date=14 October 2021|url=https://www.racefans.net/2021/10/14/f1-will-have-more-sprint-qualifying-rounds-in-2022-but-can-it-fix-the-formats-contradictions/|title=F1 will have more sprint qualifying rounds in 2022 but can it fix its contradictions?|website=RaceFans|access-date=16 January 2022|archive-date=16 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220116235947/https://www.racefans.net/2021/10/14/f1-will-have-more-sprint-qualifying-rounds-in-2022-but-can-it-fix-the-formats-contradictions/|url-status=live}} The British Grand Prix timetable for 16–18 July revealed that there would be no running for Formula One cars until 14:30 local time on Friday with the normal Qualifying starting at 18:00. Normally, the second practice session would have been at around 14:00, with no running in the evening. A second practice session is due to start at 12:00 on Saturday, before the Sprint Qualifying at 16:30. The main race is due to start at 15:00 on Sunday. At events with Sprint Qualifying, the parc fermé was now brought forward to Friday after normal Qualifying, which saw drivers only allowed to use the softest available tyre with the usual requirement for the top 10 to start on the tyres they used for their best lap in Q2 removed for events including Sprint Qualifying in their schedule. There is also no requirement to make a pit stop during Sprint Qualifying, and all 20 drivers at events where Sprint Qualifying takes place were given free tyre choice ahead of Sunday's Grand Prix.{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/racing/2021/Great_Britain.html|title=British Grand Prix 2021 – F1 Race|website=Formula1|access-date=26 May 2021|archive-date=30 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210530231241/https://www.formula1.com/en/racing/2021/Great_Britain.html|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.everything-you-need-to-know-about-f1s-new-sprint-qualifying-format-including.1Lawf6r6Ab0y8ha0satSjx.html|title=Everything you need to know about F1's new Sprint Qualifying format – including how it works|website=Formula1|access-date=26 May 2021|archive-date=10 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210510230518/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.everything-you-need-to-know-about-f1s-new-sprint-qualifying-format-including.1Lawf6r6Ab0y8ha0satSjx.html|url-status=live}} Teams were given a $500,000 overall grant by the FIA to cover the cost of the scheduled three sprint races.{{cite web |last1=Noble |first1=Jonathan |title=F1 sprint race plan set for green light after team agree financial deal |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/f1-sprint-race-plan-set-for-green-light-as-teams-agree-financial-deal/6132619/ |website=www.autosport.com |date=7 April 2021 |publisher=Autosport |access-date=28 May 2021 |archive-date=2 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210602214318/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/f1-sprint-race-plan-set-for-green-light-as-teams-agree-financial-deal/6132619/ |url-status=live }}

Winter testing switched from the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Montmeló to the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir, with three days of running beginning on 12 March.{{cite web|date=20 January 2021|title=DIARY DATES: The 2021 F1 calendar, pre-season testing details and F1 car launch schedule|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.diary-dates-the-2021-f1-calendar-pre-season-testing-details-and-f1-car.68SRf1OIY9vyvtcf1Nhrch.html|access-date=5 March 2021|website=Formula1|archive-date=5 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210305120409/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.diary-dates-the-2021-f1-calendar-pre-season-testing-details-and-f1-car.68SRf1OIY9vyvtcf1Nhrch.html|url-status=live}} Formula One declined an offer from Bahrain to provide COVID-19 vaccines for all personnel attending pre-season testing and the season's opening Grand Prix.{{cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=28 February 2021|title=Formula 1 declines Bahrain Covid-19 vaccination offer|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/56233837|access-date=5 March 2021|work=BBC Sport|archive-date=6 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210306132858/https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/56233837|url-status=live}} However, several teams and drivers opted to accept the Bahrain government's offer.{{cite web|first=Luke|last=Smith|date=12 March 2021|title=F1: Perez and Sainz accept Bahrain offer of COVID-19 vaccine|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/perez-and-sainz-accept-bahrain-offer-for-covid-19-vaccine/5695839/|access-date=12 March 2021|website=www.motorsport.com|archive-date=12 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210312122257/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/perez-and-sainz-accept-bahrain-offer-for-covid-19-vaccine/5695839/|url-status=live}}

Max Verstappen took pole position on the opening round in Bahrain.{{cite web|date=27 March 2021|title=F1 2021 Bahrain Grand Prix – Full Qualifying Results|url=https://www.crash.net/f1/results/973755/1/f1-2021-bahrain-grand-prix-full-qualifying-results|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Crash|archive-date=29 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210329081321/https://www.crash.net/f1/results/973755/1/f1-2021-bahrain-grand-prix-full-qualifying-results|url-status=live}} On the formation lap, Sergio Pérez stalled at the last turn and was relegated to start in the pit lane, leaving his 11th place spot vacant.{{cite web|last=Wilde|first=Jon|date=11 April 2021|title='Control-alt-delete' saved Sergio Perez's race in Bahrain|url=https://www.planetf1.com/news/sergio-perez-control-alt-delete-bahrain/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=PlanetF1|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170830/https://www.planetf1.com/news/sergio-perez-control-alt-delete-bahrain/|url-status=live}} On the first lap, Nikita Mazepin spun at turn 3, crashing into the barrier and calling out the safety car.{{cite web|title=2021 Bahrain Grand Prix: Mazepin spins and crashes on Lap 1|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/video.2021-bahrain-grand-prix-mazepin-spins-and-crashes-on-lap-1.1696505137425421850.html|access-date=10 September 2021|website=Formula 1|archive-date=10 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210910173430/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/video.2021-bahrain-grand-prix-mazepin-spins-and-crashes-on-lap-1.1696505137425421850.html|url-status=live}} AlphaTauri's Pierre Gasly collided with Daniel Ricciardo's McLaren the lap after the safety car ended,{{cite web|title=2021 Bahrain Grand Prix: Gasly loses front wing in Ricciardo clash|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/video.2021-bahrain-grand-prix-gasly-loses-front-wing-in-ricciardo-clash.1696505143287979305.html|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Formula 1|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170835/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/video.2021-bahrain-grand-prix-gasly-loses-front-wing-in-ricciardo-clash.1696505143287979305.html|url-status=live}} while Mick Schumacher spun off behind the pack.{{cite web|date=31 March 2021|title=Bahrain GP: Mick Schumacher Explains His Spin on Haas F1 Debut|url=https://www.essentiallysports.com/f1-news-bahrain-gp-mick-schumacher-explains-his-spin-on-haas-f1-debut/|access-date=10 September 2021|website=EssentiallySports|archive-date=10 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210910173430/https://www.essentiallysports.com/f1-news-bahrain-gp-mick-schumacher-explains-his-spin-on-haas-f1-debut/|url-status=live}} Lewis Hamilton got past Verstappen on lap 40, but on lap 53 Verstappen overtook Hamilton at turn 4, before being ordered to give the place back because he exceeded track limits.{{cite web|date=29 March 2021|title=F1's track limits confusion explained after Bahrain GP|url=https://www.espn.co.uk/f1/story/_/id/31157724/f1-track-limits-confusion-explained-bahrain-grand-prix|access-date=9 September 2021|website=ESPN.com|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170830/https://www.espn.co.uk/f1/story/_/id/31157724/f1-track-limits-confusion-explained-bahrain-grand-prix|url-status=live}} In the end, Hamilton won from Verstappen, and Valtteri Bottas completed the podium. Lando Norris finished in fourth and Pérez, after starting from last, recovered to fifth.{{cite web|title=FORMULA 1 BAHRAIN GRAND PRIX 2021 – RACE RESULT|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2021/races/1064/bahrain/race-result.html|url-status=live|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Formula 1|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210328181154/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2021/races/1064/bahrain/race-result.html |archive-date=28 March 2021 }}

At the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, Hamilton took pole from Pérez and Verstappen.{{cite web|last=Andrew Lewin|date=17 April 2021|title=2021 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix – Qualifying results|url=https://f1i.com/news/402393-2021-emilia-romagna-grand-prix-qualifying-results.html|access-date=9 September 2021|website=F1i.com|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170830/https://f1i.com/news/402393-2021-emilia-romagna-grand-prix-qualifying-results.html|url-status=live}} Verstappen went into the lead at turn 1 on lap 1, after it started raining on race day. Mazepin and Nicholas Latifi crashed at the exit of turn 13, bringing out the safety car.{{cite web|last=GPfans.com|title=Mazepin blames "stressed" Latifi for Williams wall shunt|url=https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-news/63980/mazepin-blames-stressed-latifi-for-williams-wall-shunt/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=GPfans|date=19 April 2021|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170830/https://www.gpfans.com/en/f1-news/63980/mazepin-blames-stressed-latifi-for-williams-wall-shunt/|url-status=live}} Under the safety car, Schumacher lost control of his car and spun into the pit exit, losing his front wing.{{cite web|title=2021 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix: Schumacher destroys front wing in Safety Car spin|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/video.2021-emilia-romagna-grand-prix-schumacher-destroys-front-wing-in-safety-car-spin.1699127533643896339.html|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Formula 1|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170833/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/video.2021-emilia-romagna-grand-prix-schumacher-destroys-front-wing-in-safety-car-spin.1699127533643896339.html|url-status=live}} On lap 31, at turn 7, Hamilton made a mistake, hitting the wall and damaging his front wing. After approximately a minute in the gravel, he rejoined.{{cite web|title=Lewis Hamilton says 'impatience' led to Emilia Romagna GP mistake and explains how he fought back to second|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/24181/12279638/lewis-hamilton-says-impatience-led-to-emilia-romagna-gp-mistake-and-explains-how-he-fought-back-to-second|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Sky Sports|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170831/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/24181/12279638/lewis-hamilton-says-impatience-led-to-emilia-romagna-gp-mistake-and-explains-how-he-fought-back-to-second|url-status=live}} The moment he did, his teammate Bottas and George Russell had a crash at over {{Convert|200|mph|abbr=on|order=flip}} on the start-finish straight, bringing out the red flag.{{cite web|last=Herbert|first=Danny|date=19 April 2021|title=Russell and Bottas crash analysis|url=https://drivetribe.com/p/russell-and-bottas-crash-analysis-DUpm07EeT7C8THxciAzozQ|access-date=9 September 2021|website=DriveTribe|archive-date=22 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220122153611/https://drivetribe.com/p/russell-and-bottas-crash-analysis-DUpm07EeT7C8THxciAzozQ|url-status=dead}} After the race restarted, Norris overtook Charles Leclerc for second, but the former was overtaken by Hamilton, resulting in a podium of Verstappen, Hamilton and Norris.{{cite web|title=FORMULA 1 PIRELLI GRAN PREMIO DEL MADE IN ITALY E DELL'EMILIA ROMAGNA 2021 – RACE RESULT|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2021/races/1065/italy/race-result.html|url-status=live|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Formula 1|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210415023839/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2021/races/1065/italy/race-result.html |archive-date=15 April 2021 }}

Bottas took pole at the {{F1GP|2021|Portuguese}}.{{cite web|date=1 May 2021|title=F1 2021 Portuguese Grand Prix – Qualifying Results|url=https://www.crash.net/f1/results/976729/1/f1-2021-portuguese-grand-prix-qualifying-results|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Crash|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170839/https://www.crash.net/f1/results/976729/1/f1-2021-portuguese-grand-prix-qualifying-results|url-status=live}} He kept his lead from Hamilton and Verstappen. On lap 2, Kimi Räikkönen made contact with his teammate, Antonio Giovinazzi, and was forced into retirement, while Giovinazzi could continue.{{cite web|last=Woodhouse|first=Jamie|date=2 May 2021|title=Kimi Raikkonen takes blame for Antonio Giovinazzi collision|url=https://www.planetf1.com/news/kimi-raikkonen-responsible-collision/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=PlanetF1|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170831/https://www.planetf1.com/news/kimi-raikkonen-responsible-collision/|url-status=live}} Hamilton eventually overtook Bottas and won with Verstappen in second and Bottas in third. Pérez and Norris came fourth and fifth, respectively.{{cite web|title=F1 Results – 2021 Portuguese Grand Prix|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/2021/portuguese-grand-prix/results|access-date=9 September 2021|website=BBC Sport-GB|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170829/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/2021/portuguese-grand-prix/results|url-status=live}} Verstappen took the fastest lap on the last lap but was soon deleted, due to track limits, meaning Bottas was given the fastest lap point.{{cite web|title="Odd" track limits error costs Verstappen Portugal F1 fastest lap point|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/odd-track-limits-error-costs-verstappen-portugal-f1-fastest-lap-point/6501270/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=www.autosport.com|date=2 May 2021|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170830/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/odd-track-limits-error-costs-verstappen-portugal-f1-fastest-lap-point/6501270/|url-status=live}}

Hamilton took his 100th pole position in Spain.{{cite web|url=https://www.marca.com/en/f1/2021/05/08/6096721e46163fb8138b45a0.html|title=Formula 1's Spanish Grand Prix qualifying: Lewis Hamilton on pole and full starting grid|date=8 May 2021|access-date=8 May 2021|work=Marca|archive-date=8 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508143201/https://www.marca.com/en/f1/2021/05/08/6096721e46163fb8138b45a0.html|url-status=live}} On lap 1, Verstappen overtook him at the first turn. Five laps later, Yuki Tsunoda pulled over at the reprofiled turn 10, marking his first Formula One retirement.{{cite web|last=Wilde|first=Jon|date=9 May 2021|title=Yuki Tsunoda hopes 'gearbox, not engine' caused DNF|url=https://www.planetf1.com/news/yuki-tsunoda-spanish-grand-prix-dnf/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=PlanetF1|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170832/https://www.planetf1.com/news/yuki-tsunoda-spanish-grand-prix-dnf/|url-status=live}} Hamilton took the lead after Verstappen pitted on lap 23, but Verstappen took it back on lap 28. However, a slow stop and a decision to stay out until lap 59 let Hamilton into the lead until the checkered flag, Verstappen ended up second with Bottas in third place from Leclerc and Pérez.{{cite web|title=Formula 1 2021 Spanish GP Results|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/results/2021/spanish-gp-483481/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=www.motorsport.com|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170829/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/results/2021/spanish-gp-483481/|url-status=live}}

File:FIA_F1_Austria_2021_Nr._44_Hamilton.jpg became the first F1 driver to reach 100 pole positions at the Spanish Grand Prix, and at the Russian Grand Prix he also became first to achieve 100 race wins.|220px]]

Leclerc took pole at the Monaco Grand Prix despite crashing in the final minutes.{{cite web|date=22 May 2021|title=Charles Leclerc Crashes And Still Takes Pole For Ferrari In Mad Monaco Qualifying|url=https://wtf1.com/post/charles-leclerc-crashes-and-still-takes-pole-for-ferrari-in-mad-monaco-qualifying/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=WTF1|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170832/https://wtf1.com/post/charles-leclerc-crashes-and-still-takes-pole-for-ferrari-in-mad-monaco-qualifying/|url-status=live}} The crash caused a driveshaft failure,{{cite web|title=Ferrari investigation finds that Leclerc qualifying crash WAS to blame for issue that forced Monaco DNS|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ferrari-investigation-finds-that-leclerc-qualifying-crash-was-to-blame-for.1NNRCOZ5MBnYZVLGSg1HrC.html|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Formula1|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170831/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ferrari-investigation-finds-that-leclerc-qualifying-crash-was-to-blame-for.1NNRCOZ5MBnYZVLGSg1HrC.html|url-status=live}} meaning he was unable to start the race.{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.watch-heartbreak-for-polesitter-leclerc-as-he-is-ruled-out-of-the-monaco-gp.1jnroAbJt5CkRkd58QXhya.html|title=WATCH: Heartbreak for polesitter Leclerc as he is ruled out of the Monaco GP before the start|website=Formula1|access-date=10 June 2021|archive-date=31 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210531065343/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.watch-heartbreak-for-polesitter-leclerc-as-he-is-ruled-out-of-the-monaco-gp.1jnroAbJt5CkRkd58QXhya.html|url-status=live}} Verstappen started at the front and led from Bottas and Carlos Sainz Jr. On lap 30, Bottas was forced into retirement after his front-right tyre would not come off during a routine pitstop.{{cite web|last=Technology|first=Motorsport|date=28 May 2021|title=What really happened with the botched Bottas Monaco pit stop?|url=https://motorsport.tech/formula-1/what-really-happened-with-the-botched-bottas-monaco-pit-stop|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Motorsport Technology|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170831/https://motorsport.tech/formula-1/what-really-happened-with-the-botched-bottas-monaco-pit-stop|url-status=live}} Verstappen took the victory, as well as the championship lead for the first time in his career; Red Bull came away from this race with a one-point lead in the Constructors' Championship. Behind Verstappen, Sainz took his first podium for Ferrari, and Norris took his second podium of the season in third place.{{cite web|title=F1 Monaco Grand Prix 2021 Live Coverage & Results I PlanetF1|url=https://live.planetf1.com/monaco-grand-prix/2021/race-hub|access-date=9 September 2021|website=live.planetf1.com|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170831/https://live.planetf1.com/monaco-grand-prix/2021/race-hub|url-status=live}}

Leclerc took pole again in Azerbaijan, this time he was able to start the race.{{cite web|title=F1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix – Qualifying results|url=https://racingnews365.com/2021-f1-azerbaijan-grand-prix-qualifying-results|access-date=9 September 2021|website=RacingNews365|date=5 June 2021|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170831/https://racingnews365.com/2021-f1-azerbaijan-grand-prix-qualifying-results|url-status=live}} He led for one lap before Hamilton got past on lap 2 at turn 1. Hamilton was held up in his pitstop to allow Gasly to pass him in the pitlane, handing Verstappen the net race lead. On lap 30, Lance Stroll crashed out due to a tyre failure and brought out the safety car.{{cite web|title=Stroll uninjured after dramatic high speed tyre failure|url=https://racingnews365.com/stroll-uninjured-after-dramatic-high-speed-tyre-failure|access-date=9 September 2021|website=RacingNews365|date=6 June 2021|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170831/https://racingnews365.com/stroll-uninjured-after-dramatic-high-speed-tyre-failure|url-status=live}} With Verstappen comfortably leading with six laps to go, he suffered a tyre failure, causing him to crash on the pit straight, bringing out the safety car and then the red flag on lap 46 and 48, respectively.{{cite web|date=16 June 2021|title=F1: Verstappen's tyre failed in Baku because of 'running conditions'|url=https://www.topgear.com/car-news/formula-one/f1-verstappens-tyre-failed-baku-because-running-conditions|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Top Gear|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909170839/https://www.topgear.com/car-news/formula-one/f1-verstappens-tyre-failed-baku-because-running-conditions|url-status=live}} The race was restarted with two laps of racing left. Hamilton went up the inside of Pérez at the restart, but forgot to adjust his brake bias and missed the corner.{{cite web|title=AZERBAIJAN GRAND PRIX: LEWIS HAMILTON 'DESTROYED' AFTER 'MAGIC' BUTTON MISTAKE COSTS HIM RACE|url=https://www.eurosport.com/geoblocking.shtml|url-status=live|access-date=9 September 2021|website=www.eurosport.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200110133019/https://www.eurosport.com/geoblocking.shtml |archive-date=10 January 2020 }} Pérez won for the second time in his career and took his first win for Red Bull. Sebastian Vettel took Aston Martin's first podium in Formula One, while Gasly took his third career podium.{{cite web|title=FORMULA 1 AZERBAIJAN GRAND PRIX 2021 – RACE RESULT|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2021/races/1068/azerbaijan/race-result.html|url-status=live|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Formula 1|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210329084450/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2021/races/1068/azerbaijan/race-result.html |archive-date=29 March 2021 }}

In France, Verstappen got his second pole of the season,{{cite web|title=Formula 1 qualifying results: Starting grid for 2021 French Grand Prix|url=https://www.sportingnews.com/us/athletics/news/formula-1-qualifying-results-french-grand-prix-2021-starting-grid/x6scfbxo039h1jzwfx4syyrbu|access-date=9 September 2021|website=www.sportingnews.com|date=12 August 2021|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184426/https://www.sportingnews.com/us/athletics/news/formula-1-qualifying-results-french-grand-prix-2021-starting-grid/x6scfbxo039h1jzwfx4syyrbu|url-status=live}} only to go wide at the first turn and lose the lead to Hamilton in the first lap. After regaining first with an undercut in his first pit stop, Verstappen found himself under heavy pressure from both Mercedes drivers. Verstappen relinquished his lead to pit a second time, one of two drivers to do so, returning to the track 18 seconds behind Hamilton. The speed advantage allowed him to make up the lost time, overtaking Bottas on lap 44 and Hamilton on the penultimate lap, for his third win of the year and his thirteenth win overall.{{cite web|title=FRENCH GP – Max Verstappen chases down Sir Lewis Hamilton for victory in a race of strategy – Formula One Vault|url=https://f1vault.co.uk/french-gp-max-verstappen-chases-down-sir-lewis-hamilton-for-victory-in-a-race-of-strategy/|access-date=9 September 2021|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184428/https://f1vault.co.uk/french-gp-max-verstappen-chases-down-sir-lewis-hamilton-for-victory-in-a-race-of-strategy/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|date=20 June 2021|title=Verstappen defeats Hamilton with last-gasp French GP pass|url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/verstappen-defeats-hamilton-with-last-gasp-french-gp-pass/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=The Race|archive-date=20 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210620212624/https://the-race.com/formula-1/verstappen-defeats-hamilton-with-last-gasp-french-gp-pass/|url-status=live}} Hamilton, now 12 points behind in the Drivers' Championship, did secure second, and with an overtake on lap 49, Pérez managed to take third place, pushing Bottas to fourth.{{cite web|title=FORMULA 1 EMIRATES GRAND PRIX DE FRANCE 2021 – RACE RESULT|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2021/races/1070/france/race-result.html|url-status=live|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Formula 1|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210329084603/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2021/races/1070/france/race-result.html |archive-date=29 March 2021 }} It was the first race of the season where the race winner also took pole position and the fastest lap, and the first race of the season with no retirements.{{cite web|date=21 June 2021|title=2021 French GP 10th race in F1 history without retirements|url=https://www.italy24news.com/sports/f1/49259.html|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Italy24 News Sports|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184427/https://www.italy24news.com/sports/f1/49259.html|url-status=dead}} Red Bull extended their lead over Mercedes in the Constructors' Championship to 37 points after the race.{{cite web|title=F1 World Championship standings after 2021 French GP|url=https://racingnews365.com/f1-world-championship-standings-after-2021-french-gp|access-date=9 September 2021|website=RacingNews365|date=20 June 2021|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184427/https://racingnews365.com/f1-world-championship-standings-after-2021-french-gp|url-status=live}}

File:FIA F1 Austria 2021 Nr. 31 Ocon (back).jpg, Esteban Ocon took his and Alpine's first F1 victory after eventually taking the lead starting from eighth when multiple cars collided at the first turn of the opening lap.|220px]]

Max Verstappen took his third season pole at the Styrian Grand Prix, the first of two back-to-back races at the Red Bull Ring.{{cite web|title=Styrian GP Qualifying: Max Verstappen claims another pole with Lewis Hamilton to start second|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/36606/12342321/styrian-gp-qualifying-max-verstappen-claims-another-pole-with-lewis-hamilton-to-start-second|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Sky Sports|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184426/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/36606/12342321/styrian-gp-qualifying-max-verstappen-claims-another-pole-with-lewis-hamilton-to-start-second|url-status=live}} On the first lap, three cars collided at the third turn, forcing Pierre Gasly out of the race.{{cite web|title=Gasly surprised clash with Leclerc in Styrian GP wasn't investigated|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/gasly-surprised-clash-with-leclerc-in-styrian-gp-wasnt-investigated/6623398/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Autosport.com|date=July 2021|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184425/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/gasly-surprised-clash-with-leclerc-in-styrian-gp-wasnt-investigated/6623398/|url-status=live}} Verstappen won from Lewis Hamilton, meaning Verstappen extended his title lead to 18 points. Valtteri Bottas came third, taking his first podium since Spain.{{cite web|title=2021 Styrian Grand Prix race report & highlights: Verstappen eases to Styrian Grand Prix victory over Hamilton|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.verstappen-eases-to-styrian-grand-prix-victory-over-title-rival-hamilton.25uzXCuuzQKUSDizV67Z1I.html|access-date=28 June 2021|website=Formula1|archive-date=27 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210627193807/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.verstappen-eases-to-styrian-grand-prix-victory-over-title-rival-hamilton.25uzXCuuzQKUSDizV67Z1I.html|url-status=live}} Verstappen took pole at the Austrian Grand Prix, the last race of the first triple header.{{cite web|title=Austrian Grand Prix 2021: Qualifying|url=https://www.redbull.com/au-en/redbullracing/galleries/austrian-gp-2021-qualifying|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Red Bull|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909185833/https://www.redbull.com/au-en/redbullracing/galleries/austrian-gp-2021-qualifying|url-status=live}} On the first lap, Esteban Ocon retired with broken suspension.{{cite web|title=2021 Austrian Grand Prix: Ocon retires after clash with Giovinazzi and Schumacher|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/video.2021-austrian-grand-prix-ocon-retires-after-clash-with-giovinazzi-and-schumacher.1704360630872254434.html|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Formula 1|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184427/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/video.2021-austrian-grand-prix-ocon-retires-after-clash-with-giovinazzi-and-schumacher.1704360630872254434.html|url-status=live}} Lando Norris received a penalty after being judged to have forced Sergio Pérez off track.{{cite web|last=Woodhouse|first=Jamie|date=4 July 2021|title=Lando Norris unhappy with penalty for 'stupid' Sergio Perez move|url=https://www.planetf1.com/news/lando-norris-stupid-sergio-perez/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=PlanetF1|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184426/https://www.planetf1.com/news/lando-norris-stupid-sergio-perez/|url-status=live}} Pérez later received two penalties for doing the same to Charles Leclerc.{{cite web|date=4 July 2021|title=Perez 'not comfortable with myself' over Leclerc clashes|url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/perez-not-comfortable-with-myself-over-leclerc-clashes/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=The Race|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184428/https://the-race.com/formula-1/perez-not-comfortable-with-myself-over-leclerc-clashes/|url-status=live}} Verstappen won the race from Bottas and Norris. Hamilton finished fourth,{{cite web|date=4 July 2021|title=2021 Austrian Grand Prix F1 race result|url=https://www.racefans.net/2021/07/04/2021-austrian-grand-prix-race-result/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=RaceFans|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184428/https://www.racefans.net/2021/07/04/2021-austrian-grand-prix-race-result/|url-status=live}} after picking up damage to the underside of his car,{{cite web|date=7 July 2021|title=Mercedes reveals extent of Hamilton's Austria damage|url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/mercedes-reveals-extent-of-hamiltons-austria-damage/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=The Race|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184426/https://the-race.com/formula-1/mercedes-reveals-extent-of-hamiltons-austria-damage/|url-status=live}} meaning that Verstappen was able to extend his championship lead to 32 points.{{cite news|last=Pugmire|first=Jerome|date=4 July 2021|url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/max-verstappen-wins-austrian-gp-extends-overall-lead-1.6089641|title=Max Verstappen continues F1 dominance with win at Austrian GP|publisher=Associated Press|access-date=16 January 2022|via=CBC|archive-date=18 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220118182439/https://www.cbc.ca/sports/max-verstappen-wins-austrian-gp-extends-overall-lead-1.6089641|url-status=live}}

Hamilton was fastest in qualifying to start in first place for the first ever sprint in the British Grand Prix.{{cite web|date=16 July 2021|title=2021 British Grand Prix F1 starting grid|url=https://www.racefans.net/2021/07/16/2021-british-grand-prix-sprint-qualifying-starting-grid/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=RaceFans|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184428/https://www.racefans.net/2021/07/16/2021-british-grand-prix-sprint-qualifying-starting-grid/|url-status=live}} In the sprint, Verstappen made a better start than Hamilton and overtook him before the first corner, leading every lap and winning the sprint with Hamilton second and Bottas third, thus Verstappen started on pole for the Grand Prix itself.{{cite web|last=Fans|first=Scuderia|date=18 July 2021|title=Final starting grid for 2021 British Grand Prix|url=https://scuderiafans.com/final-starting-grid-for-2021-british-grand-prix/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Scuderia Fans|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184428/https://scuderiafans.com/final-starting-grid-for-2021-british-grand-prix/|url-status=live}} On lap five of the sprint, Pérez spun, dropping him to the back of the field, and later retiring,{{cite web|title=Perez blames "dirty air" for F1 sprint race spin|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/perez-blames-dirty-air-for-f1-sprint-race-spin/6632454/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Autosport.com|date=17 July 2021|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184427/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/perez-blames-dirty-air-for-f1-sprint-race-spin/6632454/|url-status=live}} forcing him to start from the pits for the race.{{cite web|last=Scott|first=Mark|date=18 July 2021|title=Sergio Perez to start British Grand Prix from pit lane|url=https://www.planetf1.com/news/sergio-perez-british-grand-prix-pit-lane/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=PlanetF1|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184426/https://www.planetf1.com/news/sergio-perez-british-grand-prix-pit-lane/|url-status=live}} On the first lap of the Grand Prix, Verstappen and Hamilton collided at approximately {{convert|180|mph|km/h|order=flip}} at Copse corner.{{Cite news|title=Red Bull's Hamilton penalty request rejected|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/58014629|access-date=9 September 2021|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184427/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/58014629|url-status=live}} Hamilton made contact with Verstappen's right rear wheel, causing the tyre to come off and Verstappen travelled into the barrier, causing the race to be stopped temporarily. Hamilton was penalised for the contact with a ten-second penalty, which he served during his pit stop.{{cite web|title=Stewards penalise Lewis Hamilton: Ten second penalty|url=https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/89441/stewards-penalise-lewis-hamilton-ten-seconds-penalty.html|access-date=9 September 2021|website=GPblog.com|archive-date=18 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211018134509/https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/89441/stewards-penalise-lewis-hamilton-ten-seconds-penalty.html|url-status=live}} Leclerc led most of the Grand Prix, but finished second after Hamilton overtook Norris, Bottas, and Leclerc in the late stages to win the race.{{cite web|last=Andrew Lewin|date=18 July 2021|title=2021 British Grand Prix – Race results from Silverstone|url=https://f1i.com/news/412662-2021-british-grand-prix-race-results.html|access-date=9 September 2021|website=F1i.com|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184430/https://f1i.com/news/412662-2021-british-grand-prix-race-results.html|url-status=live}} Hamilton reduced his gap to Verstappen from 33 points to eight points.{{cite web|url=https://www.outlookindia.com/website/story/sports-news-f1-2021-lewis-hamilton-roars-back-to-win-british-gp-after-max-verstappen-crash/388615|title=F1 2021: Lewis Hamilton Roars Back To Win British GP After Max Verstappen Crash|website=Outlook India|date=18 July 2021|access-date=16 January 2022|archive-date=18 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220118182604/https://www.outlookindia.com/website/story/sports-news-f1-2021-lewis-hamilton-roars-back-to-win-british-gp-after-max-verstappen-crash/388615|url-status=live}}

Hamilton was again fastest in qualifying to take pole in the Hungarian Grand Prix.{{cite web|title=2021 Hungarian GP: Qualifying|date=31 July 2021|url=https://www.scuderiaalphatauri.com/en/2021-hungarian-gp-qualifying/|access-date=9 September 2021|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184427/https://www.scuderiaalphatauri.com/en/2021-hungarian-gp-qualifying/|url-status=live}} Rainy conditions at the start of the race led to Bottas misjudging his braking and sliding into the back of Norris; this escalated into multiple collisions which eventually eliminated five drivers: Bottas, Norris (who only retired on lap 3), Pérez, Lance Stroll and Leclerc.{{cite web|title=2021 Hungarian Grand Prix: Bottas sparks multiple crashes in dramatic race start|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/video.2021-hungarian-grand-prix-bottas-sparks-multiple-crashes-in-dramatic-race-start.1706896466684805871.html|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Formula 1|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184430/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/video.2021-hungarian-grand-prix-bottas-sparks-multiple-crashes-in-dramatic-race-start.1706896466684805871.html|url-status=live}} Due to the large amount of debris on the track, the race was red-flagged; at this stage, Hamilton led from Ocon and Sebastian Vettel, with championship leader Verstappen, having acquired damage on the opening lap, in 13th. Hamilton was the only driver who did not choose to pit for slick tyres at the end of the formation lap, leaving him the only driver on the grid for the restart;{{cite web|date=3 August 2021|title=How Mercedes left Hamilton alone on Hungary's restart grid|url=https://racer.com/2021/08/03/how-mercedes-left-hamilton-alone-on-hungarys-restart-grid/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=RACER|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184427/https://racer.com/2021/08/03/how-mercedes-left-hamilton-alone-on-hungarys-restart-grid/|url-status=live}} this saw him drop to last when he pitted on the next lap. In the pits, Kimi Räikkönen was released into Nikita Mazepin's path, putting Mazepin out of the race.{{cite web|date=3 August 2021|title=WATCH: Recent Alfa Romeo F1 Blunder Has Raikkonen Raging With Anger|url=https://www.essentiallysports.com/f1-news-fked-again-kimi-raikkonen-rages-at-alfa-romeo-f1-after-pit-stop-blunder-in-hungary/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=EssentiallySports|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184427/https://www.essentiallysports.com/f1-news-fked-again-kimi-raikkonen-rages-at-alfa-romeo-f1-after-pit-stop-blunder-in-hungary/|url-status=live}} The newly promoted Ocon held his lead until the end to take his first Formula 1 victory, finishing ahead of Vettel, and Hamilton, who had battled his way back up the classification, and Carlos Sainz Jr.{{cite web|title=Grand Prix race results: Ocon wins wild Hungarian GP F1|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/grand-prix-race-results-ocon-wins-wild-hungarian-gp-f1/6640564/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Autosport.com|date=August 2021|archive-date=17 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220217045555/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/grand-prix-race-results-ocon-wins-wild-hungarian-gp-f1/6640564/|url-status=live}} Vettel was later disqualified for a fuel sample issue, promoting Hamilton to second and Sainz to third.{{Cite news|title=Vettel disqualified from Hungarian GP|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/58050375|access-date=9 September 2021|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184426/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/58050375|url-status=live}} Hamilton's recovery drive saw him retake the championship lead over Verstappen by eight points, while Mercedes also regained their advantage over Red Bull in the Constructors' standings by twelve points. Meanwhile, Nicholas Latifi and George Russell were classified seventh and eighth, taking Williams's first points since 2019.{{cite web|title=2021 Hungarian Grand Prix|url=https://www.williamsf1.com/news/2021/races/hungary/2021-hungarian-grand-prix|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Williamsf1.com|archive-date=24 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210924030414/https://www.williamsf1.com/News/2021/Races/Hungary/2021-HUNGARIAN-GRAND-PRIX|url-status=live}}

Verstappen took pole from Russell and Hamilton in the Belgian Grand Prix in a wet qualifying session.{{cite web|title=Formula 1 Rolex Belgian Grand Prix 2021 – Qualifying|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2021/races/1074/belgium/qualifying.html|url-status=live|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Formula 1|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210417204347/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2021/races/1074/belgium/qualifying.html |archive-date=17 April 2021 }} The race was heavily affected by rain, which initially saw the start delayed by 25 minutes. After two formation laps behind the safety car, the race start was suspended and red-flagged due to poor conditions and lack of visibility.{{cite web|date=29 August 2021|title=Belgian GP delayed start due to adverse weather|url=https://formulaspy.com/f1/belgian-gp-delayed-start-due-to-adverse-weather-76089|access-date=9 September 2021|website=FormulaSpy|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184426/https://formulaspy.com/f1/belgian-gp-delayed-start-due-to-adverse-weather-76089|url-status=live}} A nearly three-hour delay followed before the race was resumed. After a further three laps, the race was red-flagged again.{{cite web|title=Belgian GP under red flag following safety car start in heavy rain|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/belgian-gp-under-red-flag-following-safety-car-start-in-heavy-rain/6656650/|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Autosport.com|date=29 August 2021|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184429/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/belgian-gp-under-red-flag-following-safety-car-start-in-heavy-rain/6656650/|url-status=live}} It was not restarted,{{cite web|title=Belgian GP: Max Verstappen takes win as race red-flagged due to heavy rain, George Russell second|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12526/12394363/belgian-gp-max-verstappen-takes-win-as-race-red-flagged-due-to-heavy-rain-george-russell-second|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Sky Sports|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184426/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12526/12394363/belgian-gp-max-verstappen-takes-win-as-race-red-flagged-due-to-heavy-rain-george-russell-second|url-status=live}} becoming the shortest race in Formula 1 history and the sixth to award half-points as less than 75% of the race was completed.{{cite web|date=31 August 2021|title=F1 to review half points rule after Belgian GP farce|url=https://www.espn.co.uk/f1/story/_/id/32117974/formula-one-review-half-points-rule-belgian-gp-farce|access-date=9 September 2021|website=ESPN.com|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184427/https://www.espn.co.uk/f1/story/_/id/32117974/formula-one-review-half-points-rule-belgian-gp-farce|url-status=live}} Verstappen won by default, with Russell in second and Hamilton in third place. It was Russell's first podium in Formula 1.{{cite web|title=F1 Belgian Grand Prix 2021 Live Coverage & Results I PlanetF1|url=https://live.planetf1.com/belgian-grand-prix/2021/race-hub|access-date=9 September 2021|website=PlanetF1|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184426/https://live.planetf1.com/belgian-grand-prix/2021/race-hub|url-status=live}} As a result, Hamilton's lead in the championship was cut to three points from Verstappen.{{cite news|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12395689/formula-1-championship-standings-as-max-verstappen-cuts-lewis-hamilton-lead-after-belgian-gp|title=Formula 1 championship standings as Max Verstappen cuts Lewis Hamilton lead after Belgian GP|publisher=Sky Sports|date=31 July 2021|access-date=16 January 2022|archive-date=17 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220117001552/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12395689/formula-1-championship-standings-as-max-verstappen-cuts-lewis-hamilton-lead-after-belgian-gp|url-status=live}}

File:FIA_F1_Austria_2021_Nr._3_Ricciardo.jpg's victory at the Italian Grand Prix was the first Grand Prix victory for McLaren since 2012, and with Lando Norris their first 1–2 finish since 2010.|220px]]

Verstappen would again take pole at the first Dutch Grand Prix to take place since 1985 at Zandvoort.{{cite web|title=What happened at the F1 Dutch Grand Prix?|url=https://www.redbull.com/gb-en/dutch-f1-grand-prix-2021-race-report|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Red Bull|archive-date=9 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909184426/https://www.redbull.com/gb-en/dutch-f1-grand-prix-2021-race-report|url-status=live}} He held his lead from Hamilton to take the win at his home race,{{cite web|last=Ramsay|first=George|title=Max Verstappen wins Dutch Grand Prix to the delight of home fans|url=https://www.cnn.com/2021/09/05/motorsport/max-verstappen-dutch-gp-f1-spt-intl/index.html|access-date=9 September 2021|website=CNN|date=5 September 2021|archive-date=21 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210921050909/https://www.cnn.com/2021/09/05/motorsport/max-verstappen-dutch-gp-f1-spt-intl/index.html|url-status=live}} taking over the lead of the championship by three points. Bottas came third, overtaking Norris, who finished tenth,{{cite web|title=Formula 1 Heineken Dutch Grand Prix 2021 – Race Result|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2021/races/1075/netherlands/race-result.html|url-status=live|access-date=9 September 2021|website=Formula 1|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210329084655/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2021/races/1075/netherlands/race-result.html |archive-date=29 March 2021 }} in the standings for third place.{{cite news|url=https://www.marca.com/en/f1/2021/09/05/6134968922601da83c8b4618.html|title=F1 Standings – Verstappen wins Formula 1's Dutch Grand Prix|website=Marca|date=5 September 2021|access-date=16 January 2022|archive-date=18 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220118182534/https://www.marca.com/en/f1/2021/09/05/6134968922601da83c8b4618.html|url-status=live}} Bottas won sprint qualifying at the Italian Grand Prix, but was forced to start from the back of the grid after exceeding the quota of one on his power units' components. Verstappen started at the front with the McLarens second and third. Daniel Ricciardo took the lead on lap 1. A slow stop for Verstappen meant that he ended up alongside Hamilton after the latter made his pitstop. Hamilton and Verstappen collided, ending their races prematurely. Ricciardo led to the end to take his first victory since the 2018 Monaco Grand Prix and McLaren's first victory since the 2012 Brazilian Grand Prix. His teammate Norris finished a career-best second place, whilst Bottas came third from the back of the grid after a penalty was applied to Pérez.{{cite web|title=2021 Italian Grand Prix race report and highlights: Ricciardo leads stunning McLaren 1–2 at Monza after Verstappen and Hamilton collide again|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-leads-stunning-mclaren-1-2-at-monza-after-verstappen-and-hamilton.2BH4g9dpznux3HTK3SXj9B.html|access-date=13 September 2021|website=Formula1|archive-date=12 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210912145723/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-leads-stunning-mclaren-1-2-at-monza-after-verstappen-and-hamilton.2BH4g9dpznux3HTK3SXj9B.html|url-status=live}} After the race, Verstappen was penalised by the stewards for being predominantly at fault for the collision with Hamilton; he was given a 3-place grid-penalty for the next race and two penalty points on his super licence.{{cite web|title=Max Verstappen handed three-place grid drop for Sochi after crash with Hamilton at Monza|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-verstappen-handed-three-place-grid-drop-for-sochi-after-crash-with.1DxVWlOKHcI6R086WzbvWI.html|access-date=13 September 2021|website=Formula1|archive-date=12 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210912210904/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-verstappen-handed-three-place-grid-drop-for-sochi-after-crash-with.1DxVWlOKHcI6R086WzbvWI.html|url-status=live}}

Verstappen was required to start from the back at the Russian Grand Prix for exceeding his quota of a number of his power unit components. Norris took his first career pole position, from Sainz (his best qualifying result), and Russell.{{cite web|title=Qualifying report & highlights from the 2021 Russian Grand Prix: Norris beats Sainz and Russell to claim sensational maiden pole in Sochi|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-beats-sainz-and-russell-to-claim-sensational-maiden-pole-for-russian.5im1e4xLa599XBsImt7Yb3.html|url-status=live|access-date=26 September 2021|website=Formula1|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210925132241/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.norris-beats-sainz-and-russell-to-claim-sensational-maiden-pole-for-russian.5im1e4xLa599XBsImt7Yb3.html |archive-date=25 September 2021 }} The running order changed substantially as heavy rain began to fall in the closing laps. Hamilton took his 100th Formula One victory as well as the championship lead, ahead of Verstappen and Sainz.{{cite news|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2021/9/26/hamilton-wins-100th-f1-race-to-take-lead-over-verstappen|title=Hamilton wins 100th Formula One race with victory in Russian GP|publisher=Al Jazeera|date=26 September 2021|access-date=16 January 2022|archive-date=9 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211009063850/https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2021/9/26/hamilton-wins-100th-f1-race-to-take-lead-over-verstappen|url-status=live}}

File:2021_United_States_Grand_Prix_23_(cropped).jpg (right) and Lewis Hamilton (left) together finished first and second (in either order) at 14 Grand Prix races across the 2021 season, including the United States Grand Prix (pictured).|220px]]

Lewis Hamilton was the fastest in qualifying in Turkey, but was dropped down the grid because of a penalty due to a power unit component change.{{Cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-hamilton-set-for-turkish-gp-grid-penalty-after-taking-new-mercedes.2767biwoXLLinxWmgElMq4.html|title=Lewis Hamilton set for 2021 Turkish GP grid penalty after taking new Mercedes engine|access-date=9 October 2021|archive-date=12 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211112184324/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-hamilton-set-for-turkish-gp-grid-penalty-after-taking-new-mercedes.2767biwoXLLinxWmgElMq4.html|url-status=live}} Valtteri Bottas was promoted to pole position and won the race, his first of 2021. He was followed by Max Verstappen, who re-took the championship lead, and Sergio Pérez, who took his first podium since France.{{Cite news|last=Slater|first=Luke|date=10 October 2021|title=Turkish GP 2021, F1 live: Valtteri Bottas wins as fifth-placed Lewis Hamilton loses title lead|work=The Telegraph|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/formula-1/2021/10/10/turkish-grand-prix-2021-live-race-f1-results-istanbul-hamilton/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220110/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/formula-1/2021/10/10/turkish-grand-prix-2021-live-race-f1-results-istanbul-hamilton/ |archive-date=10 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|access-date=10 October 2021|issn=0307-1235}}{{cbignore}} Verstappen continued his momentum in the United States Grand Prix, taking pole position. Despite Hamilton taking the lead in turn 1, Verstappen was able to win the race with Hamilton in second place, in front of Pérez. The result increased Verstappen's lead to 12 points as Hamilton collected an extra Championship point by setting the fastest lap.{{Cite web|last=Lamonato|first=Michael|date=24 October 2021|title=Verstappen holds off Hamilton for USGP win|url=https://racer.com/2021/10/24/verstappen-holds-off-hamilton-for-usgp-win/|url-status=live|access-date=13 December 2021|website=Racer|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211024211818/https://racer.com/2021/10/24/verstappen-holds-off-hamilton-for-usgp-win/ |archive-date=24 October 2021 }} Bottas took pole in Mexico City, but was spun around at the first corner by Daniel Ricciardo. Another incident behind involving Yuki Tsunoda and Mick Schumacher took both drivers out of the race, calling out the safety car.{{cite web|last=Beer|first=Matt|title=Verstappen dominates Mexican GP after bold first-corner move|url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/verstappen-dominates-mexican-gp-after-bold-first-corner-move/|publisher=The Race|date=7 November 2021|access-date=13 December 2021|archive-date=13 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211213065715/https://the-race.com/formula-1/verstappen-dominates-mexican-gp-after-bold-first-corner-move/|url-status=live}} Verstappen took his second win in a row, increasing his lead from Hamilton in second, and Pérez took the final spot on the podium in his home race.{{cite web|title=Max Verstappen wins over Lewis Hamilton in Mexico City to extend F1 points lead|url=https://motorsports.nbcsports.com/2021/11/07/f1-max-verstappen-sergio-perez-lewis-hamilton-mexico-city-grand-prix/|publisher=NBC Sports|agency=Associated Press|date=7 November 2021|access-date=13 December 2021|archive-date=13 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211213064212/https://motorsports.nbcsports.com/2021/11/07/f1-max-verstappen-sergio-perez-lewis-hamilton-mexico-city-grand-prix/|url-status=dead}}

Hamilton was fastest in qualifying in Brazil, but was disqualified the following day for a technical infringement. Bottas won the qualifying sprint, giving him pole position for the Grand Prix. By finishing second in the sprint, Verstappen increased his championship lead over Hamilton by two points, and Carlos Sainz Jr., who finished third, increased Ferrari's championship lead over McLaren. Hamilton finished fifth in the sprint from last on the grid, but a five-place grid drop due to taking a new engine relegated him to tenth on the grid for the Grand Prix. On race day, both Verstappen and Pérez were able to overtake Bottas on the first lap. Meanwhile, Lando Norris and Sainz were involved in a separate incident, with Norris getting a puncture. On lap 48, Hamilton caught up to Verstappen and attempted an overtake, but failed and resulted in both of them going off track. Hamilton tried again on lap 59 and got past. He won the race from Verstappen, decreasing Verstappen's championship lead from 21 points to 14 points,{{cite news|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12492630/max-verstappen-vs-lewis-hamilton-how-title-fight-swung-and-was-ultimately-won-in-an-epic-2021-f1-season|title=Max Verstappen vs Lewis Hamilton: How title fight swung and was ultimately won in an epic 2021 F1 season|publisher=Sky Sports|date=31 December 2021|access-date=16 January 2022|archive-date=18 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220118182859/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12492630/max-verstappen-vs-lewis-hamilton-how-title-fight-swung-and-was-ultimately-won-in-an-epic-2021-f1-season|url-status=live}} while Bottas completed the podium.{{cite web|last=Kalinauckas|first=Alex|date=14 November 2021|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/brazilian-f1-gp-race-report-hamilton-verstappen/6781915/|title=Brazilian GP: Hamilton passes Verstappen to win from 10th on grid|website=Motrosport.com|access-date=16 January 2022|archive-date=17 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220117002803/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/brazilian-f1-gp-race-report-hamilton-verstappen/6781915/|url-status=live}}

Hamilton took pole position in Qatar, while a penalty for failing to respect double waived yellow flags during qualifying forced Verstappen to start from seventh.{{Cite web|date=21 November 2021|title=Decision car 33|url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2021%20Qatar%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Offence%20-%20Car%2033%20-%20double%20yellow%20flags.pdf|url-status=live|website=FIA|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211121122835/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2021%20Qatar%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Offence%20-%20Car%2033%20-%20double%20yellow%20flags.pdf |archive-date=21 November 2021 }} Hamilton took the win, leading every lap of the race. Verstappen quickly recovered to second place but was unable to threaten Hamilton's race lead despite setting the fastest lap on the last lap of the race. Fernando Alonso used a one-stop strategy to finish third, less than three seconds ahead of Peréz in fourth, it was Alonso's first podium since the 2014 Hungarian Grand Prix. Bottas and Nicholas Latifi retired from the race after they and multiple others suffered punctures on track. The result reduced Verstappen's lead in the Driver's Championship to eight points while Mercedes's lead in the Constructors' Championship was reduced to five points.{{Cite news |url= https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/59367052 |title= Lewis Hamilton closes on Max Verstappen in title with Qatar Grand Prix win |last= Benson |first= Andrew |date= 21 November 2021 |access-date= 7 November 2021 |work= BBC Sport |archive-date= 21 November 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20211121154229/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/59367052 |url-status= live }}{{Cite news |url= https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2021/nov/21/lewis-hamilton-dominates-f1-qatar-gp-to-cut-max-verstappens-title-lead |title= Lewis Hamilton dominates F1 Qatar GP to cut Max Verstappen's title lead |last= Richards |first= Giles |date= 21 November 2021 |access-date= 7 November 2021 |work= The Guardian |archive-date= 21 November 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20211121163817/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2021/nov/21/lewis-hamilton-dominates-f1-qatar-gp-to-cut-max-verstappens-title-lead |url-status= live }}

Hamilton took pole position again in the inaugural Saudi Arabian Grand Prix ahead of Bottas and Verstappen, who crashed at the last corner of his final qualifying lap.{{cite web |last1=Kelly |first1=Sean |title=Saudi Arabia qualifying facts & stats: Hamilton nabs consecutive poles for the first time this season |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.saudi-arabia-qualifying-facts-and-stats-hamilton-nabs-consecutive-poles-for.3XnmCYyMYPRfzY4Q2cmZpi.html |website=Formula 1 |publisher=Formula One World Championship Ltd. |access-date=6 December 2021 |archive-date=5 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211205134236/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.saudi-arabia-qualifying-facts-and-stats-hamilton-nabs-consecutive-poles-for.3XnmCYyMYPRfzY4Q2cmZpi.html |url-status=live }} The race played host to several incidents which saw the retirements of Schumacher, Pérez, George Russell, Nikita Mazepin, and Sebastian Vettel, with Hamilton, Verstappen, Tsunoda, and Kimi Räikkönen also being involved in collisions during the race. Hamilton won the race from Verstappen, while Bottas overtook Esteban Ocon at the final corner to take third place.{{cite web |title=Hamilton beats Verstappen in controversy-filled first ever Saudi Arabian Grand Prix as title rivals draw equal on points |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.hamilton-beats-verstappen-in-controversy-filled-first-ever-saudi-arabian.5tXuSymwVOwoVCU4LYBHNl.html |website=Formula 1 |access-date=6 December 2021 |archive-date=5 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211205204305/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.hamilton-beats-verstappen-in-controversy-filled-first-ever-saudi-arabian.5tXuSymwVOwoVCU4LYBHNl.html |url-status=live }} The results left Hamilton and Verstappen on equal points in the Drivers' Championship going into the final round in Abu Dhabi, while Mercedes extended their lead in the Constructors Championship to 28 points.{{cite web|last=Galloway|first=James|title=Abu Dhabi GP: Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton tied on F1 points and heading into title-deciding Sunset Showdown|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/15740/12487389/abu-dhabi-gp-max-verstappen-lewis-hamilton-tied-on-f1-points-and-heading-into-title-deciding-sunset-showdown|publisher=Sky Sports|date=8 December 2021|access-date=13 December 2021|archive-date=6 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211206104148/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/15740/12487389/abu-dhabi-gp-max-verstappen-lewis-hamilton-tied-on-f1-points-and-heading-into-title-deciding-sunset-showdown|url-status=live}}

File:Hamilton vs Verstappen in 2021 Formula 1 season.png

File:FIA F1 Austria 2021 Nr. 7 Räikkönen (side).jpg, driving for Alfa Romeo, retired after the season.]]

Verstappen took the pole position in Abu Dhabi ahead of Hamilton and Norris.{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.verstappen-snatches-pole-from-hamilton-in-thrilling-abu-dhabi-grand-prix.0BrCED36Vqok2dkZRKsMR.html|title=Verstappen snatches pole from Hamilton in thrilling Abu Dhabi Grand Prix qualifying|website=Formula 1|date=11 December 2021|access-date=11 December 2021|archive-date=11 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211211143017/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.verstappen-snatches-pole-from-hamilton-in-thrilling-abu-dhabi-grand-prix.0BrCED36Vqok2dkZRKsMR.html|url-status=live}} During the race, Hamilton had a better start and took the lead into the first turn. At turn six Verstappen attempted to pass, forcing Hamilton to evade by going off the track. Emerging from the corner still in the lead, Hamilton was instructed to give up the advantage he had gained. The pair settled in their positions until the first round of pit stops, with Hamilton gradually extending his lead. He later lost much of his advantage when Pérez, Verstappen's teammate with Red Bull, and who had yet to make a pit stop, made it difficult for Hamilton to pass him, though Verstappen was unable to capitalise. Later, a virtual safety car period allowed Verstappen to change his tyres without losing track position, which was an attempt to catch Hamilton with fresher tyres. With seven laps remaining, the safety car was brought out for a crash involving Latifi, and Red Bull used the opportunity to give Verstappen a fresh set of soft tyres, while Hamilton, still on his now-quite-old hard compound tyres, was not pitted. Race director Michael Masi took the decision to allow only the five lapped cars between Hamilton and Verstappen to unlap themselves before restarting the race with only one lap remaining.{{cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=13 December 2021|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/59643988|title=Formula 1: Where next for sport after Verstappen and Hamilton title drama?|publisher=BBC|access-date=16 January 2022|archive-date=16 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220116052608/https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/59643988|url-status=live}} Upon the restart, Verstappen quickly passed Hamilton and held him off for the remainder of the lap to win the race and the championship.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/live/2021/dec/12/f1-abu-dhabi-grand-prix-formula-one-max-verstappen-lewis-hamilton-title-live-updates|title=Abu Dhabi GP: Max Verstappen wins F1 world title after last-lap drama – live!|first=Daniel|last=Harris|date=13 December 2021|access-date=13 December 2021|work=The Guardian|archive-date=12 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211212200746/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/live/2021/dec/12/f1-abu-dhabi-grand-prix-formula-one-max-verstappen-lewis-hamilton-title-live-updates|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last1=Hughes|first1=Mark|last2=Mitchell|first2=Scott|last3=Straw|first3=Edd|date=30 December 2021|url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/answering-the-last-unanswered-questions-from-f1-2021/|title=Answering the last unanswered questions from F1 2021|website=The Race|publisher=The Race Media|access-date=12 January 2022|archive-date=30 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211230084843/https://the-race.com/formula-1/answering-the-last-unanswered-questions-from-f1-2021/|url-status=live}}

Mercedes lodged two separate protests against the race's result.{{cite web|date=12 December 2021|title=Summons – Car 44 – Mercedes Protest of Car 33 (Art 48.8)|url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2021%20Abu%20Dhabi%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Summons%20-%20Car%2044%20-%20Mercedes%20Protest%20of%20Car%2033%20(Art.%2048.8).pdf|url-status=live|publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile|access-date=16 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211212153710/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2021%20Abu%20Dhabi%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Summons%20-%20Car%2044%20-%20Mercedes%20Protest%20of%20Car%2033%20(Art.%2048.8).pdf |archive-date=12 December 2021 }}{{cite web|date=12 December 2021|title=Summons – Mercedes Protest (Art 48.12)|url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2021%20Abu%20Dhabi%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Summons%20-%20Mercedes%20Protest%20(Art.%2048.12).pdf|url-status=live|publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile|access-date=16 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211212154101/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/decision-document/2021%20Abu%20Dhabi%20Grand%20Prix%20-%20Summons%20-%20Mercedes%20Protest%20(Art.%2048.12).pdf |archive-date=12 December 2021 }} Both protests were dismissed,{{cite news|date=11 December 2021|title=Verstappen's F1 world title stands after Mercedes protest rejected|publisher=BBC|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/live/formula1/54911288|access-date=12 December 2021|archive-date=12 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211212111743/https://www.bbc.com/sport/live/formula1/54911288|url-status=live}}{{cite web|date=12 December 2021|title=Decision – Mercedes Protest Art. 48.8|url=https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/doc_57_-_2021_abu_dhabi_grand_prix_-_decision_-_mercedes_protest_art._48.8.pdf|url-status=live|publisher=Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile|access-date=16 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211212183826/https://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/doc_57_-_2021_abu_dhabi_grand_prix_-_decision_-_mercedes_protest_art._48.8.pdf |archive-date=12 December 2021 }}{{efn|Mercedes protested the result of the race on two counts: (i) for Verstappen overtaking under the safety car contrary to Article 48.8 of the Formula One sporting regulations, and (ii) that they believed the race director did not follow the correct procedure under Article 48.12 by only allowing the cars between Verstappen and Hamilton to unlap themselves before the restart at the end of lap 57, despite initially rejecting requests from Red Bull to do so. The first count was dismissed as the stewards ruled that Verstappen being momentarily ahead of Hamilton's during the safety car restart procedure did not constitute an overtake.{{cite web|title=Stewards dismiss Mercedes protest for Verstappen overtaking behind safety car|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/stewards-dismiss-mercedes-protest-for-verstappen-overtaking-behind-safety-car/6878722/|access-date=13 December 2021|website=Autosport|date=12 December 2021|archive-date=12 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211212212144/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/stewards-dismiss-mercedes-protest-for-verstappen-overtaking-behind-safety-car/6878722/|url-status=live}} As for the second count, the stewards ruled that although Article 48.12 was not applied in full, Red Bull's argument that Article 48.13 and Article 15.3 overrode that rule was correct, and that deleting the last lap would "effectively [shorten] the race retrospectively" and was inappropriate.{{cite web|date=12 December 2021|title=Full FIA stewards' verdict on Mercedes protest over Abu Dhabi GP race restart|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/full-fia-stewards-verdict-on-mercedes-protest-over-abu-dhabi-gp-race-restart/6878855/|access-date=13 December 2021|website=Autosport.com|publisher=Motorsport Network|archive-date=12 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211212193523/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/full-fia-stewards-verdict-on-mercedes-protest-over-abu-dhabi-gp-race-restart/6878855/|url-status=live}}}} and Mercedes announced their intention to appeal the dismissal of the protest regarding the handling of the restart following the safety car period.{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Luke|date=12 December 2021|title=Mercedes lodges intention to appeal dismissal of Abu Dhabi GP protest|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/mercedes-lodges-intention-to-appeal-dismissal-of-abu-dhabi-gp-protests/6878901/|access-date=12 December 2021|website=Autosport.com|publisher=Motorsport Network|archive-date=12 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211212194325/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/mercedes-lodges-intention-to-appeal-dismissal-of-abu-dhabi-gp-protests/6878901/|url-status=live}}

A statement from the FIA acknowledged the controversy,{{cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|title=Abu Dhabi GP 'tarnishing image' of F1|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/59675264|access-date=15 December 2021|publisher=BBC|date=15 December 2021|archive-date=15 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211215210156/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/59675264|url-status=live}} and that it was "tarnishing the image of the championship and the due celebration".{{cite web|title=Statement of the FIA World Motor Sport Council 15.12.21|url=https://www.fia.com/news/statement-fia-world-motor-sport-council|publisher=Federation Internationale de l'Automobile|access-date=15 December 2021|date=15 December 2021|archive-date=15 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211215223239/https://www.fia.com/news/statement-fia-world-motor-sport-council|url-status=live}} The statement was made after a meeting of the FIA World Motor Sport Council, which was scheduled for 15 December 2021,{{cite web|last=Wilde|first=Jon|title=FIA release new statement on Abu Dhabi Grand Prix|url=https://www.planetf1.com/news/fia-statement-abu-dhabi-grand-prix/|access-date=16 January 2022|website=RaceFans|date=13 December 2021|archive-date=15 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220115193151/https://www.planetf1.com/news/fia-statement-abu-dhabi-grand-prix/|url-status=live}} and was described as "extending an olive branch to Mercedes". On 16 December 2021,{{cite web|title=Mercedes F1 team withdraws Abu Dhabi GP appeal|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mercedes-statement-abu-dhabi-gp-appeal/6885780/|website=Motorsport.com|date=16 December 2021|access-date=16 January 2022|archive-date=16 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211216101201/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mercedes-statement-abu-dhabi-gp-appeal/6885780/|url-status=live}} Mercedes' statement: {{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/MercedesAMGF1/status/1471419870680125441/photo/1|url-status=live|title=Team Statement – Abu Dhabi Grand Prix|publisher=Twitter|date=16 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211216100023/https://twitter.com/MercedesAMGF1/status/1471419870680125441|archive-date=16 December 2021|access-date=16 December 2021}} Mercedes announced that it had withdrawn its challenge to the race result.{{cite web|url=https://theathletic.com/live-blogs/abu-dhabi-grand-prix-f1-championship-lewis-hamilton-and-max-verstappen/g6dO0HIceqOJ/|title=F1 live news: Mercedes won't appeal Abu Dhabi result, will push for changes; Verstappen remains F1 champion; Hamilton's F1 future questioned|website=The Athletic|publisher=The New York Times Company|date=16 December 2021|access-date=12 January 2022|archive-date=13 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211213214618/https://theathletic.com/live-blogs/abu-dhabi-grand-prix-f1-championship-lewis-hamilton-and-max-verstappen/g6dO0HIceqOJ/|url-status=live}}{{efn|Before renouncing their appeal, commentary from a lawyer in The Guardian suggested that Mercedes would be in a strong position to mount legal action, although they noted the conflict between Mercedes wishing to stress sporting integrity versus the increasing commercialisation of the sport.{{cite news|last=Richards|first=Giles|title=Lewis Hamilton says FIA 'manipulated' last-lap showdown in radio message|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2021/dec/13/lawyer-warns-fia-abu-dhabi-decision-could-be-overturned-in-court|access-date=15 December 2021|work=The Guardian|date=13 December 2021|archive-date=15 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211215092507/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2021/dec/13/lawyer-warns-fia-abu-dhabi-decision-could-be-overturned-in-court|url-status=live}} Another lawyer later confirmed this view that Mercedes has a "good legal basis" for their protest.{{cite news|last=Collantine|first=Keith|title=Mercedes have 'good legal basis' for appeal over Abu Dhabi GP – lawyer|url=https://www.racefans.net/2021/12/14/mercedes-have-good-legal-basis-for-appeal-over-abu-dhabi-gp-lawyer/|access-date=15 December 2021|website=RaceFans|date=14 December 2021|archive-date=14 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211214212612/https://www.racefans.net/2021/12/14/mercedes-have-good-legal-basis-for-appeal-over-abu-dhabi-gp-lawyer/|url-status=live}}}} In addition, Hamilton boycotted the end of season FIA prize-giving ceremony, held on 16 December 2021, and at the time there were questions whether he would continue in F1.{{cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=11 January 2022|title=Lewis Hamilton: Mercedes driver to decide on F1 future after Abu Dhabi inquiry|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/59951382|publisher=BBC|access-date=11 January 2022|archive-date=11 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220111163044/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/59951382|url-status=live}} Hamilton was investigated for breaching the Sporting Regulations which state the top three drivers in the championship must attend the FIA Gala. Newly elected FIA president Mohammed bin Sulayem stating in the immediate championship aftermath that there would be "no forgiveness" for Hamilton's failure to attend the event.{{cite web|url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/new-fia-president-to-investigate-hamilton-gala-breach/|title=New FIA president to investigate Hamilton gala breach|website=The Race|date=17 December 2021|access-date=16 January 2022|archive-date=18 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218155146/https://the-race.com/formula-1/new-fia-president-to-investigate-hamilton-gala-breach/|url-status=live}}

Following an FIA investigation and inquiry, Michael Masi was removed from his role as race director, being replaced by Niels Wittich and Eduardo Freitas, with Herbie Blash appointed as a permanent senior advisor alongside Wittich and Freitas.

On 10 March 2022 the FIA World Motor Sport Council report on the events of the final race of the season was announced, and that the "Race Director called the safety car back into the pit lane without it having completed an additional lap as required by the Formula 1 Sporting Regulations", however also noted that the "results of the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and the FIA Formula One World Championship are valid, final and cannot now be changed".{{cite news |date=19 March 2022 |title=FIA ANNOUNCES WORLD MOTOR SPORT COUNCIL DECISIONS |language=en |work=Federation Internationale de l'Automobile |url=https://www.fia.com/news/fia-announces-world-motor-sport-council-decisions-25 |access-date=19 March 2022 |archive-date=9 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220409133122/https://www.fia.com/news/fia-announces-world-motor-sport-council-decisions-25 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |date=19 March 2022 |title=2021 F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix - Report to the World Motor Sport Council - 19 March 2022 |url=https://www.fia.com/2021-f1-abu-dhabi-grand-prix-report-world-motor-sport-council-19-march-2022 |access-date=19 March 2022 |website=Federation Internationale de l'Automobile |language=en |archive-date=24 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220324224707/https://www.fia.com/2021-f1-abu-dhabi-grand-prix-report-world-motor-sport-council-19-march-2022 |url-status=live }} Hamilton himself revealed that he had been fined for failing to attend the FIA Prize Giving Gala asking for the governing body to donate the proceeds to underprivileged children who want to get involved in motorsport.{{cite web |last1=Sutill |first1=Josh |title=Hamilton and FIA 'worked together' on fine he owe for Gala snun |url=https://the-race.com/formula-1/hamilton-and-fia-worked-together-on-fine-he-owes-for-gala-snub/ |website=The Race |date=18 March 2022 |publisher=The Race Media |access-date=18 March 2022 |archive-date=18 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220318111027/https://the-race.com/formula-1/hamilton-and-fia-worked-together-on-fine-he-owes-for-gala-snub/ |url-status=live }}

In October 2022, the FIA published their review of the teams' budgets for 2021. Red Bull Racing had committed a minor financial breach (defined as less than 5% over budget) of {{Currency|1864000|pound}}. Additionally, both Aston Martin and Red Bull were found to have made procedural breaches.{{cite news |last=Benson |first=Andrew |date=10 October 2022 |title=Red Bull found guilty of breaking Formula 1's budget cap |work=BBC Sport |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/63204082 |access-date=10 October 2022 |archive-date=10 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221010170825/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/63204082 |url-status=live }} Red Bull were punished with a {{Currency|7 million}} and a 10% reduction in wind tunnel testing time for period of one year,{{cite web |title=Full FIA report of Red Bull F1 cost cap breach and penalty |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/full-fia-report-on-red-bull-f1-cost-cap-breach-and-penalty/10391617/ |website=Autosport |date=28 October 2022 |access-date=11 November 2022 |archive-date=11 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221111064803/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/full-fia-report-on-red-bull-f1-cost-cap-breach-and-penalty/10391617/ |url-status=live }} while Aston Martin were fined {{Currency|450000|linked=no}}.{{cite web |title=Aston Martin enter Agreement over procedural breach of 2021 Cost Cap |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.aston-martin-enter-agreement-over-procedural-breach-of-2021-cost-cap.5ZxOdpRaUwNhgMLs1SdR73.html |website=Formula 1 |access-date=11 November 2022 |archive-date=11 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221111104319/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.aston-martin-enter-agreement-over-procedural-breach-of-2021-cost-cap.5ZxOdpRaUwNhgMLs1SdR73.html |url-status=live }} Opinion on the outcome amongst F1 team personnel was divided, with Red Bull team principal Christian Horner "begrudgingly" accepting what he deemed to be a "draconian" punishment, stating that the loss of wind tunnel time could cost them between 0.25 and 0.5 seconds a lap in performance.{{cite web |title=Red Bull chief Christian Horner says team 'begrudgingly accept' 2021 F1 cost cap breach punishment |url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/30778/12732660/red-bull-chief-christian-horner-says-team-begrudgingly-accept-2021-f1-cost-cap-breach-punishment#:~:text=Red%20Bull%20were%20punished%20for,not%20owe%20anyone%20an%20apology |website=Sky Sports |access-date=11 November 2022 |archive-date=11 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221111113742/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/30778/12732660/red-bull-chief-christian-horner-says-team-begrudgingly-accept-2021-f1-cost-cap-breach-punishment#:~:text=Red%20Bull%20were%20punished%20for,not%20owe%20anyone%20an%20apology |url-status=live }} Alpine's Otmar Szafnauer and Mercedes' Toto Wolff felt the FIA's decision was fair, with the latter stating that the "reputational damage" incurred by Red Bull would be enough to deter teams from breaching the cost cap in future. McLaren's Andreas Seidl, was less satisfied, saying that "the penalty doesn't fit the breach" and hoping for "stricter" penalties for future circumventions of the rules.{{cite web |title=Mercedes boss Toto Wolff says breaching F1 cost cap not worth 'reputational damage' after Red Bull punished by FIA |url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12732815/mercedes-boss-toto-wolff-says-breaching-f1-cost-cap-not-worth-reputational-damage-after-red-bull-punished-by-fia |website=Sky Sports |access-date=11 November 2022 |archive-date=11 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221111113742/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12732815/mercedes-boss-toto-wolff-says-breaching-f1-cost-cap-not-worth-reputational-damage-after-red-bull-punished-by-fia |url-status=live }}

{{further|List of Formula One World Championship points scoring systems}}

Points towards both titles were awarded to the top ten classified finishers at each event. In addition, one point was awarded to the driver who achieved the fastest lap time of the race and to the relevant constructor, provided the driver was in the top ten positions of the final race classification. At those events where a sprint qualifying session took place, points for both titles were awarded to the top three finishers in the final sprint qualifying session classification.

In the case of a tie on points a countback system was used where the driver with the most first places is ranked higher. If the number of first places was identical then the number of second places was considered, and so on. If this procedure failed to produce a result, the FIA nominated the winner according to such criteria as it thinks fit. The points were awarded for every race using the following system:{{cite web|url=https://www.fia.com/file/78014/download/26183|title=2019 Formula One Sporting Regulations|date=12 March 2019|website=fia.com|pages=3–4, 41|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190313225312/https://www.fia.com/file/78014/download/26183|archive-date=13 March 2019|access-date=27 November 2019}}

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Notes:

• {{dagger}} – Driver did not finish the Grand Prix but was classified, as he completed more than 90% of the race distance.
• {{double-dagger}} – Half points were awarded at the Belgian Grand Prix as less than 75% of the scheduled distance was completed. Fastest laps were not recognised in the final classification.

| style="vertical-align:top;" |

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Notes:

• {{dagger}} – Driver did not finish the Grand Prix, but was classified as he completed more than 90% of the race distance.
• {{double-dagger}} – Half points were awarded at the Belgian Grand Prix as less than 75% of the scheduled distance was completed. Fastest laps were not recognised in the final classification.
• Rows are not related to the drivers: within each team, individual Grand Prix standings are sorted purely based on the final classification in the race (not by total points scored in the event, which includes points awarded for fastest lap and sprint qualifying).

{{notelist}}

{{reflist}}

{{portal|Formula One}}

• {{official website|https://www.formula1.com}}

{{Formula One Championship}}

{{World championships in 2021}}

Formula One

Category:Formula One seasons