Sebastian Vettel celebrating on the podium

The 15 Greatest Formula 1 Drivers Ever, Ranked from Lowest to Highest

January 28, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

Formula 1 has produced some of the most talented and legendary athletes in the history of motorsport. From fearless pioneers in the early days of racing to the modern masters of speed and strategy, each driver on this list has left an undeniable mark on the sport. Determining the “greatest” is always subjective, as every era of Formula 1 presents its own unique challenges and heroes. This list is not meant to be definitive but represents our qualified take on the 15 greatest F1 drivers based on their achievements, influence, and legacy.

15. Stirling Moss

Stirling Moss is often regarded as the greatest driver never to win a World Championship. He secured 16 Grand Prix victories during an era when reliability and danger defined motorsport. Moss’s versatility as a driver was unparalleled, excelling in various categories beyond F1. His sportsmanship was equally legendary, as shown when he defended Mike Hawthorn during a controversial title decision in 1958, a gesture that cost him the championship. Despite never lifting the ultimate prize, Moss’s skill and integrity made him a true icon of the sport.

14. Kimi Räikkönen

Known as “The Iceman,” Kimi Räikkönen won the World Championship in 2007, narrowly beating Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso in a dramatic finale. With 21 Grand Prix victories, Räikkönen’s raw speed and calm demeanor under pressure earned him widespread respect. His ability to extract performance from difficult cars made him a fan favorite throughout his long career. Off the track, his unique personality and no-nonsense approach endeared him to fans and the paddock alike. Räikkönen remains one of the most celebrated and enigmatic figures in Formula 1.

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13. Mika Häkkinen

Mika Häkkinen was Michael Schumacher’s fiercest rival during the late 1990s, winning back-to-back World Championships in 1998 and 1999. Renowned for his clean racing and consistency, Häkkinen’s battles with Schumacher were a highlight of his career. He claimed 20 Grand Prix victories, often delivering under immense pressure. Häkkinen’s remarkable comeback after a life-threatening crash in 1995 showcased his resilience and determination. His quiet demeanor belied the fierce competitor who left an indelible mark on the sport.

12. Nigel Mansell

Nigel Mansell’s 1992 World Championship is one of the most dominant seasons in F1 history, with nine wins in 16 races. Known for his aggressive driving style and never-give-up attitude, Mansell earned 31 Grand Prix victories. His ability to perform in high-stakes situations made him a fan favorite. Mansell’s career was marked by intense rivalries, particularly with Nelson Piquet and Alain Prost, adding to the drama of his racing days. His tenacity and passion continue to define his legacy in Formula 1.

11. Jackie Stewart

Jackie Stewart, a three-time World Champion (1969, 1971, 1973), was a master of precision and consistency. Known as “The Flying Scot,” he won 27 Grand Prix races during a career marked by his advocacy for safety in the sport. Stewart’s efforts to improve driver safety transformed Formula 1, reducing fatalities and injuries significantly. His smooth driving style and technical knowledge allowed him to succeed in an era of mechanical unreliability. Stewart’s contributions extended beyond racing, cementing his status as one of the sport’s greatest figures.

10. Jim Clark

Jim Clark was a natural talent whose career was tragically cut short in 1968. A two-time World Champion (1963, 1965), Clark won 25 Grand Prix races, often dominating the competition. Known for his adaptability, he excelled in various forms of motorsport, including IndyCar, where he won the Indianapolis 500. Clark’s smooth and effortless driving style made him a favorite among fans and peers. He remains one of the most revered drivers in the history of Formula 1.

9. Niki Lauda

Niki Lauda’s career is a testament to resilience and determination, highlighted by his three World Championships (1975, 1977, 1984). His miraculous return to racing just six weeks after a near-fatal crash in 1976 is one of the sport’s most remarkable stories. Lauda won 25 Grand Prix races and was instrumental in revitalizing Ferrari and McLaren during his career. His methodical approach to racing and sharp technical insights made him a key figure in developing competitive cars. Lauda’s legacy extends beyond racing, as he became a successful businessman and mentor to future F1 stars.

8. Fernando Alonso

Fernando Alonso is a two-time World Champion (2005, 2006) and one of the most versatile drivers in Formula 1 history. With 32 Grand Prix victories, Alonso’s ability to maximize performance in any car is legendary. His battles with Michael Schumacher and later with Sebastian Vettel showcased his incredible racecraft. Alonso’s longevity and adaptability have kept him competitive across multiple eras of the sport. His fierce determination and relentless pursuit of success have earned him a place among F1’s all-time greats.

7. Alain Prost

Alain Prost, nicknamed “The Professor,” was a master strategist who claimed four World Championships (1985, 1986, 1989, 1993). With 51 Grand Prix victories, Prost was known for his calculated and efficient driving style. His rivalry with Ayrton Senna is one of the most famous and intense in F1 history. Prost’s technical feedback and leadership helped elevate every team he joined. His combination of intelligence and speed solidifies his place as one of the sport’s finest competitors.

6. Sebastian Vettel

Sebastian Vettel’s four consecutive World Championships (2010–2013) with Red Bull Racing marked an era of dominance. With 53 Grand Prix victories, Vettel’s consistency and ability to handle pressure were key to his success. His dedication to teamwork and technical feedback contributed to Red Bull’s rise as a powerhouse. Vettel’s sportsmanship and leadership have also been widely praised, both on and off the track. His achievements place him among the greatest drivers of the modern era.

5. Juan Manuel Fangio

Juan Manuel Fangio after winning a race — Harry Pot / Anefo, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Juan Manuel Fangio’s five World Championships (1951, 1954–1957) set a standard of excellence in the early days of Formula 1. With 24 Grand Prix victories, Fangio dominated an era defined by danger and mechanical unreliability. His ability to adapt to different cars and teams showcased his incredible skill and intelligence. Fangio’s calm demeanor and sportsmanship made him a respected figure both on and off the track. He remains a symbol of excellence in the sport’s history.

4. Max Verstappen

Max Verstappen, with four consecutive World Championships (2021–2024), is one of the most dominant drivers of his generation. His aggressive driving style and ability to push the limits have earned him 50+ Grand Prix victories. Verstappen’s rise to the top began as the youngest race winner in F1 history at just 18 years old. His consistent performance and dominance in recent seasons have cemented his legacy as one of the all-time greats. Verstappen’s career trajectory suggests he may rewrite more records in the years to come.

3. Ayrton Senna

Ayrton Senna’s three World Championships (1988, 1990, 1991) are a testament to his exceptional talent and fearless driving. Known for his unmatched qualifying speed and rain mastery, Senna was a force to be reckoned with. His rivalry with Alain Prost remains one of the most iconic in motorsport. Tragically, Senna’s life was cut short during the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix, leaving the world to wonder what more he could have achieved. Despite this, his legacy as one of F1’s greatest drivers endures.

2. Michael Schumacher

Michael Schumacher’s seven World Championships (1994, 1995, 2000–2004) and 91 Grand Prix victories defined an era of unparalleled dominance. His work ethic and technical understanding transformed Ferrari into a winning machine. Schumacher’s battles with Mika Häkkinen and Fernando Alonso remain highlights of his illustrious career. While his aggressive racing style sparked controversy, his commitment to winning was unquestionable. Schumacher set a benchmark that inspired a generation of drivers.

1. Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton’s seven World Championships (2008, 2014–2020) and record-breaking 103+ Grand Prix victories make him arguably the greatest driver in F1 history. His ability to adapt to various eras and challenges has been key to his sustained success. Hamilton’s dominance with Mercedes has rewritten the record books, including most pole positions and podium finishes. Beyond his racing accomplishments, Hamilton has used his platform to advocate for social justice and diversity. His impact on and off the track ensures his place as a legend of the sport.