Ferrari has been home to some of the most legendary drivers in Formula 1 history. From dominant world champions to cult heroes, these drivers have left an indelible mark on the Scuderia. Here’s a look at the 13 greatest drivers to have ever raced for Ferrari.
13. Clay Regazzoni
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Clay Regazzoni was a key figure in Ferrari’s revival in the mid-1970s. Racing for the team from 1970 to 1972 and again from 1974 to 1976, the Swiss driver won five Grand Prix races and was a fierce competitor. His most notable achievement was finishing as the runner-up in the 1974 championship, helping Ferrari return to the front of the grid.
12. Felipe Massa
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Felipe Massa was a loyal Ferrari driver from 2006 to 2013, winning 11 races and nearly becoming world champion in 2008. In one of the most heartbreaking moments in F1 history, he crossed the finish line as the theoretical champion, only for Lewis Hamilton to snatch the title in the final corners. Despite this, Massa remained a fan favorite and a key part of Ferrari’s success during his time with the team.
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Gilles Villeneuve raced for Ferrari from 1977 until his tragic death in 1982. Though he never won a world championship, his aggressive driving style and fearless approach made him a legend. His stunning performances, such as his battle with René Arnoux at the 1979 French Grand Prix, remain among the greatest moments in F1 history.
Kimi Räikkönen became Ferrari’s most recent drivers’ champion when he won the title in 2007. Racing for the Scuderia in two separate stints (2007-2009 and 2014-2018), the Finnish driver was known for his no-nonsense attitude and raw speed. His comeback victory at the 2018 United States Grand Prix was a reminder of his enduring talent.
9. Alain Prost
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Alain Prost joined Ferrari in 1990 and came close to winning the title that year, ultimately losing to Ayrton Senna after a controversial crash at Suzuka. The Frenchman brought his methodical and precise driving style to Ferrari, securing multiple wins in just two seasons. However, tensions within the team led to his departure in 1991.
8. Sebastian Vettel
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Sebastian Vettel arrived at Ferrari in 2015, aiming to replicate his four world championships with Red Bull. Though he never secured a title with the team, he came close in 2017 and 2018, finishing as runner-up both times. His passion for Ferrari and emotional victories, such as his 2015 Malaysian Grand Prix win, cemented his legacy with the Scuderia.
7. Juan Manuel Fangio
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Juan Manuel Fangio only raced for Ferrari in 1956 but still managed to win the world championship that season. The Argentine legend was already a three-time champion when he joined the team and added a fourth title with Ferrari before moving on. His brief but impactful tenure helped strengthen Ferrari’s dominance in the 1950s.
John Surtees remains the only person to have won world championships in both motorcycle racing and Formula 1. He raced for Ferrari from 1963 to 1966, winning the F1 title in 1964. His ability to adapt from two wheels to four was remarkable, and his contributions helped Ferrari stay competitive during a turbulent period in the sport.
5. Fernando Alonso
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Fernando Alonso joined Ferrari in 2010 and instantly became a title contender, finishing as the runner-up in 2010, 2012, and 2013. Despite never winning a championship with the team, his heroic drives, including his stunning 2012 campaign in an underperforming car, solidified his place among Ferrari’s greatest drivers. Alonso’s relentless competitiveness made him a fan favorite.
4. Charles Leclerc
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Charles Leclerc joined Ferrari in 2019 and quickly made an impact, winning races in his first season and outpacing four-time champion Sebastian Vettel. Though he has yet to secure a world title, his raw speed and emotional victories, like his 2019 Italian Grand Prix win at Monza, have made him the future of Ferrari.
3. Niki Lauda
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Niki Lauda played a crucial role in Ferrari’s success in the 1970s, winning two world championships (1975 and 1977). His near-fatal crash at the Nürburgring in 1976 and miraculous return just six weeks later is one of the most inspiring stories in F1 history. Lauda’s dedication and intelligence helped Ferrari return to the top.
Alberto Ascari was Ferrari’s first dominant driver, winning back-to-back world championships in 1952 and 1953. His precision and consistency made him nearly unbeatable during that period. Tragically, his career was cut short by a fatal accident in 1955, but his legacy as Ferrari’s early superstar remains.
1. Michael Schumacher
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Michael Schumacher is the greatest Ferrari driver of all time. Racing for the team from 1996 to 2006, he won five consecutive world championships from 2000 to 2004 and helped transform Ferrari into an unstoppable force. His record-breaking success, including 72 wins for the team, remains unmatched. Schumacher’s dominance defined an era and solidified his place as one of the greatest drivers in motorsport history.
