Grand Prix racing

Grand Prix racing, automobile racing on closed highways or other courses somewhat simulating road conditions. Such racing began in 1906, when the words “grand prix” (“big prize” in French), were first used to describe a race—the French Grand Prix at Le Mans. By the second half of the 20th century, it became one of the most popular kinds of international racing.

From the beginning, Grand Prix racing was national and controlled by automobile manufacturers under the supervision of what came to be called the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), which sets the specifications for all racing-car classes, including the popular Formula One (F1) format. F1 cars are generally smaller and more maneuverable than the ones used in speedway racing. All Grand Prix racing is with open-wheeled, single-seater (after 1924) cars, with the engine size, fuel, and other elements being controlled by the FIA.

Grand Prix racing became popular worldwide from the 1950s, when world championships for drivers and for constructors (manufacturers) were established.

The term Grand Prix was early used for the most prominent automobile race of a country and was later used for events other than Formula One car racing, as well as for events in other sports. The first such use in organized sport was probably as the name of the French Grand Prix horse race, first run in 1863. At present, Grand Prix races are literally those that apply to the World Championship of Drivers, although the term is used to describe other, less-illustrious events. More than 15 such Grand Prix events are held yearly in countries throughout the world.

For the place of Grand Prix racing in the history of automobile racing, see automobile racing.