Mercedes has been one of the defining forces in modern Formula 1, but their journey through the sport is filled with remarkable chapters dating all the way back to the 1950s. From their early dominance with legends like Juan Manuel Fangio to the hybrid-era supremacy under Lewis Hamilton, the Silver Arrows have built a legacy matched by few.
With Hamilton’s departure to Ferrari marking the end of an era, we’ve taken a closer look at the greatest drivers to ever race for Mercedes in F1. Ranked from 10 to 1, this list celebrates the individuals who left the biggest mark – whether through championships, key victories, or long-lasting influence on the team’s history.
10. Piero Taruffi
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Though he only made three starts for Mercedes, Piero Taruffi impressed with strong finishes, including a second place in one of his two races as a substitute for the injured Hans Hermann. His short but effective stint earned him a place on this list.
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Hermann showed speed and potential in his early appearances for Mercedes, including a podium and a fastest lap. Unlucky with injuries and reliability, he never got a full season to prove his talent in top machinery.
A respected figure in German motorsport, Kling was instrumental in Mercedes’ F1 comeback. He scored two podiums and later contributed behind the scenes, even if he was overshadowed by teammates Fangio and Moss.
7. Michael Schumacher
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Schumacher’s comeback with Mercedes didn’t bring race wins, but his presence helped shape the foundation for the team’s future dominance. His experience, technical insight, and leadership were pivotal off-track.
6. Stirling Moss
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In just one season with Mercedes, Moss secured his first F1 win and finished second in the championship. His 1955 campaign launched him into superstardom and confirmed his reputation as one of the sport’s greatest talents.
5. George Russell
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Seen as the future of Mercedes, Russell has already shown maturity and race-winning ability. With multiple podiums and poles, he’s proven himself a worthy successor to Hamilton as the team’s new leader.
Bottas played a crucial role in Mercedes’ continued dominance, winning 10 races and helping secure multiple Constructors’ titles. Though he never claimed a championship, he was a consistent front-runner and loyal team player.
3. Nico Rosberg
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Rosberg developed alongside the team and eventually reached the top, famously beating Hamilton to the 2016 World Championship. His intense rivalry with Lewis defined an era and brought Mercedes its first driver’s title of the hybrid era.
2. Juan Manuel Fangio
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A true legend of the sport, Fangio won two World Championships in as many years with Mercedes, winning 10 of his 14 starts. His dominance in the 1950s helped establish Mercedes as a force in F1 from the very beginning.
1. Lewis Hamilton
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The most successful driver in both Mercedes and F1 history, Hamilton transformed the team into a dynasty. With 84 wins, six titles, and unmatched consistency, his legacy with the Silver Arrows is nothing short of iconic.
