Define Podium

In motorsports the word "podium" is defined as a raised, multi-level platform typically used to receive awards from officials, along with the accolades of an assembled crowd. Although the use of the word is applied to various series at the top level of racing, it is most often used in relation with the Formula One World Championship (F1). As an interesting bit of history, the first articulation of the word podium in sports was applied during the first modern Olympics in Athens, held in 1896, and it is assumed that this historical recognition is not lost on the organizers at the Federation de l'automobile (FIA) in Paris .

  1. How The F1 Podium Process Works

    • At the end of a motorsports event the first three competitors are invited to stand on the podium and receive a series of awards. These are typically identified as the P1, P2 and P3 podium winners. Once the competitors are standing on their respective platforms, national anthems are played for the P1 driver, and the constructor who built the car. This is followed by the delivery of awards from one or more significant officials. Once these processes are completed, there is a traditional Champagne spray between the competitors, and many times delivered on, various assembled officials on and around the platform (more on this directly.)

    First (P1)

    • The P1 competitor stands on the top level of the podium (positioned at the top platform, audience center.) From there he can receive various awards for winning the event.

    Second (P2)

    • The P2 competitor stands on the level just below the winner's platform (positioned audience left). From there he can receive the award for taking second in the event.

    Third (P3)

    • The P3 competitor stands on the lowest level and to the right (positioned audience right.) From there he can receive the award for finishing third in the event.

    The Champagne Spray

    • The history of Champagne is worth a look in the context of motorsports, and Formula One specifically. The original sparkling wine was first fermented in 1535 in the Limoux region of France. Throughout the ensuing centuries the use of Champagne has come to represent "The Good Life." As a result the "Champagne Spray" has become a formal part of the Formula One World Championship, and the tradition has become so important that fines are levied on the podium competitors by the FIA, if they do not take part in the end of race festivities.